Belgium and France held goalless as Lammens and Maignan make key saves

Belgium and France were unable to find a breakthrough in an entertaining first half at the Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels, with the Nations League match level at 0-0 at the interval.

France, managed by Zinedine Zidane, began without injured captain Kylian Mbappe and fielded a significantly changed starting XI. Despite the absences, the visitors controlled 56% of possession, compared with Belgium’s 44%, and created the more threatening opportunities.

France registered eight attempts during the opening 45 minutes, with Paris Saint-Germain forward Desire Doue coming closest to breaking the deadlock.

In the 14th minute, Doue produced an excellent piece of skill before unleashing a powerful shot which struck the crossbar behind Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Lammens was called upon repeatedly as France pressed forward and made four important saves to keep the hosts on level terms.

Belgium, led by captain Kevin De Bruyne, improved towards the end of the half. The midfielder came close to giving Mark van Bommel’s side the lead when his effort from the edge of the penalty area narrowly missed Mike Maignan’s goal.

Neither side could convert its chances before the interval, leaving the match finely poised in Brussels.