Olise Strikes Late as Zidane’s France Edges Belgium 1-0

A brilliant late solo goal from substitute Michael Olise fired France to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Belgium in their UEFA Nations League encounter on Monday night, maintaining Zinedine Zidane’s perfect start as Les Bleus' manager.

Playing without the injured Kylian Mbappé, Zidane made nine changes to the side that defeated Italy. Despite the heavy rotation, the visitors dominated the offensive chances. France looked frustratingly close to breaking the deadlock twice, as rising star Désiré Doué rattled the crossbar in the first half and debutant Lucas da Cunha struck the post after the break. Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens put on a masterclass, pulling off eight crucial saves to keep the hosts in the contest.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 88th minute. Olise, who came off the bench in the 77th minute, picked up the ball near the halfway line, embarked on a sensational run past four Belgian defenders, and calmly slotted a low finish into the bottom corner.

The dramatic victory places France firmly at the top of Group 1 with six points from two matches, leaving Belgium tied with Italy on three points.