Michael Olise settles tight contest as France defeat Belgium in Brussels

Michael Olise came off the bench to secure France a 1-0 victory over Belgium and spoil Mark van Bommel’s first home match in charge of the Red Devils.

France made nine changes to their starting line-up, leaving Bayern Munich forward Olise and Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele among the substitutes. Despite fielding a much-changed side, Zinedine Zidane’s team finished strongly and claimed victory with a goal shortly before full-time.

Van Bommel had begun his tenure with Belgium by winning away in Italy, with Mika Godts scoring in that match. The former Ajax player retained his place for the meeting with France, while Belgium made two changes to their team.

The match in Brussels started several minutes late after a problem with the players’ socks was discovered shortly before kick-off. Once play began, the opening stages were lively, with France creating the first clear opportunity.

Desire Doue cut inside after a determined solo run, but his shot struck the crossbar. Belgium responded positively and produced a number of promising attacks, although their final ball repeatedly let them down.

The two sides went into half-time level at 0-0 after an entertaining first period. Zidane and Van Bommel initially kept the same line-ups after the interval, and France again hit the woodwork early in the second half, with Lucas Da Cunha’s effort striking the post.

France gradually took control of the game. Belgium survived several dangerous moments through a combination of good defending and fortune, while their ability to move out of their own penalty area became increasingly limited.

Dembele was introduced after just under 70 minutes, with Van Bommel having already made changes and used three substitutions earlier in the match. Rayan Cherki and Olise were also sent on as France looked for a breakthrough.

The decisive moment arrived just before the end. Olise embarked on an outstanding individual run before beating Senne Lammens with a powerful finish to give France the lead and settle the match.

Belgium will face Turkey in the Nations League on Friday evening before travelling to France on Monday to play the same opponents again. France are due to meet Italy on Friday 2 October.

Italy produced an impressive display by winning comfortably in Turkey. The return meeting between France and Belgium will begin at 20:45 on Monday evening at Stade de France in Paris.