France travel to Brussels to face Belgium in one of the biggest UEFA Nations League games of the round, with Zinedine Zidane preparing for his second match in charge of Les Bleus. France began the new era with a narrow 1-0 win over Turkey, while Belgium made an impressive start of their own by beating Italy 2-0 away from home. This time, though, France will have to cope without their biggest attacking star. France Without Mbappé Kylian Mbappé scored the winner against Turkey but was forced off shortly afterwards with a knee problem. His absence changes the shape of France’s attack and gives Zidane an early tactical challenge. Without Mbappé’s pace and finishing, more responsibility will fall on players such as Michael Olise, Rayan Cherki and the rest of France’s attacking options.
France looked composed in Zidane’s first game, but Belgium should provide a much tougher test. Belgium Arrive With Confidence Belgium will be encouraged by their 2-0 victory over Italy in Rome. They looked organised, dangerous on the break and confident in possession, making this an intriguing first home test for new coach Mark van Bommel.
Kevin De Bruyne remains central to everything Belgium do. His passing and ability to control the rhythm of the game could be especially important against a French midfield that will try to dominate possession. A Big Early Test for Both Teams France have enjoyed the better results in recent meetings between the two sides, but this match arrives at an interesting moment.
Both teams are beginning new chapters under new managers, both won their opening Nations League games, and both will see this fixture as an early chance to make a statement in the group. For Zidane, the question is whether France can remain dangerous without Mbappé. For Belgium, it is a chance to prove that the win in Italy was more than just a strong opening night. Belgium vs France has all the ingredients for a tense, high-level battle in Brussels.
