Randal Kolo Muani and Ousmane Dembele were on target as France secured a 2-0 victory over Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on Monday, bouncing back from their recent home defeat to Italy.
France, missing captain Kylian Mbappe among other key players due to eight changes made by coach Didier Deschamps, fielded a squad not at full strength for the match in Lyon. The team had previously lost 3-1 to Italy in Paris despite scoring within 13 seconds. Belgium, meanwhile, came into the game after a 3-1 win over Israel.
This encounter mirrored their Euro 2024 last-16 clash, which France won 1-0 in Düsseldorf thanks to a late own goal. On Monday, France took the lead just before the half-hour mark when Kolo Muani converted Dembele's mishit shot, which was initially saved by Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels.
Belgium, led by Kevin De Bruyne, struggled to equalize and France doubled their lead in the 57th minute with a superb individual effort from Dembele. The Paris Saint-Germain winger cut inside from the right and scored with a powerful left-footed shot.
In the second half, Deschamps introduced Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and Michael Olise from the bench as France managed to maintain their lead and secure the win. This result provides a morale boost for France following their recent loss to Italy.
Italy currently leads Group A2 with a perfect six points after their 2-1 victory over Israel. France and Belgium both have three points, while Israel is yet to earn a point. The next fixtures are scheduled for October, with Italy facing Belgium in Rome and Israel playing against France on neutral ground in Budapest.
