Zinedine Zidane revisits Heysel, Eden Hazard and Bommel's boxes

At 5:30 p.m. this Sunday, the coach of the French, Zinedine Zidane, spoke in the press room of the King Baudouin Stadium, where more than 75 of the 90 available seats were already taken, providing an unexpected setting for a conference where Fabien Barthez refreshed the coach's memory.

Fabien Barthez, former goalkeeper of the French, took the opportunity during the conference to refresh Zinedine Zidane's memory, an unprecedented gesture in football. Jonathan Lange, editor-in-chief of Les Sports+, noted that this type of exchange never occurs at a press conference. The atmosphere was relaxed, the coach wearing a soft smile.

Zidane and his 4‑3‑3

When asked about his offensive setup, the coach dodged the details, stating: “Well, I’m not going to give any info. But it’s said.” He nevertheless confirmed the use of a 4‑3‑3 for the exercise, leaving journalists to guess the exact roles.

When the discussion turned to his training camp in Bruges, Zidane recalled three years of learning, even mentioning a meeting with Pep Guardiola. “Everything was great. The Belgians welcomed us very well, with top‑class facilities,” he affirmed, highlighting the host country’s hospitality.

On the subject of his previous visits to the King Baudouin Stadium, the coach admitted he had initially forgotten the venue, before Fabien Barthez reminded him that they would be playing there. He mentioned the 2000 semi‑final against Portugal, marked by the hand of Abel Xavier, as well as the 1996 friendly where Philippe Albert scored an own goal (0‑2). He also recalled the 2004 victory under Jacques Santini, where he was the decisive passer for Louis Saha.

The atmosphere was described by Xavier Giraudon, press chief of the French, as “it was top, really.” The coach also recalled his forgotten memories of Heysel, Eden Hazard’s charm, and the famous van Bommel boxes, recalling moments that remain etched in Belgian football history.

Outlook of the Red Devils

Nathan Ngoy, striker of the Red Devils, said: “I know I’m capable of even better.” He highlighted the arrival of a new coach, the quality of a team that has won a World Cup, and the upcoming challenges against France. “We want to play, be on the pitch, and enjoy great match‑ups,” he added, illustrating the Belgian group’s optimism.