France bounced back in style on Monday, securing a 2-0 victory over neighbors Belgium in a crucial Nations League clash. Goals from Randal Kolo Muani and Ousmane Dembele handed the French their first points in the League A Group 2 campaign, following a slow start and an early scare from the visitors.
The French squad, which saw eight changes from their previous match, including the omission of Kylian Mbappe, delivered a much-needed win after their 3-1 loss to Italy in Paris last Friday. Despite early pressure from Belgium, France found their rhythm and took control of the game.
“We were a bit nervous at the start, but then we did a lot of good things collectively and individually, especially with new players who lacked experience,” France coach Didier Deschamps remarked after the match.
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Belgium, looking to avenge their 1-0 defeat by France at the Euros 70 days ago, came out strong in the opening moments. Lois Openda threatened early, but France’s defense held firm. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Belgium goalkeeper Koen Casteels’ save from Dembele’s scuffed shot fell perfectly for Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani, who slotted home from close range.
Dembele continued to be a constant threat and finally found the back of the net in the 57th minute. With a brilliant left-footed strike, he skipped past defenders and fired a superb shot into the goal, securing France’s second of the night.
With this victory, France’s Nations League campaign is back on track, giving them much-needed momentum as they push for top honors in the competition. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the Nations League!
