France fight back to beat Belgium 4-1 as Zidane’s substitutes turn Nations League game around

France came from behind to beat Belgium 4-1 at the Stade de France and move three points clear at the top of their Nations League group.

Dodi Lukebakio gave Belgium a surprise lead, but France’s four goals all came from players introduced by manager Zinedine Zidane. Desire Doue, Rayan Cherki and Michael Olise, who scored twice, completed the turnaround.

The result moved France on to 10 points at the summit, three ahead of Italy. Belgium remain third on six points.

France make major changes

France made 10 changes to the side that started their previous match, with Ousmane Dembele the only player retained in the starting line-up.

They controlled possession and territory from the opening stages but initially struggled to create clear chances. Belgium then took the lead against the run of play when Lukebakio ran through from the halfway line after receiving an excellent pass from Romeo Lavia before finishing into the net.

France increased the pressure after the interval as they searched for an equaliser. Dembele came close first, sending a shot just wide of the post.

Zidane began changing the match from the 60th minute, introducing Doue, Olise and Cherki between then and the 72nd minute.

Cherki nearly levelled in the 66th minute with a long-range effort, but the Belgium goalkeeper produced an outstanding save.

France finally drew level in the 77th minute when Doue struck a low shot from outside the penalty area, bringing his side back into the contest.

Three minutes later, France completed the turnaround. Olise supplied the pass inside the box and Cherki finished with one touch to put the hosts ahead.

Olise then added France’s third with a right-footed shot after being set up by Cherki.

Two minutes later, Doue showed excellent control before feeding Olise, who took one touch and found the net again to complete the scoring.

The second goal made Olise the fastest player to reach 10 goals and 10 assists for France, achieving the feat in 28 appearances. The previous record had been held by Raymond Kopa, who reached the mark in 1958.

France will face Italy in their next Nations League match in November, while Belgium will play Turkey.