France cross the border on Monday night with a new manager, a recent win and a difficult recent history against elite opposition still hanging in the air. Zinédine Zidane’s side face Belgium at 20:45 in their second Nations League group-stage match, in what will be his second fixture in charge of Les Bleus.
A familiar rivalry resumes in Belgium
The neighbours have not met since the previous Nations League campaign two years ago. Their reunion comes in the same competition, with Belgium hosting France for the first time since the Red Devils’ World Cup exit.
- Belgium v France takes place on Monday at 20:45.
- The match is part of the second round of Nations League group fixtures.
- France have lost only twice in 10 meetings with Belgium since 2000.
- It will be Zidane’s second match on the France bench.
France arrive three days after a 1-0 victory over Turkey, but the visit to Belgium offers a more severe test. Les Bleus were beaten by Spain and England at the World Cup, leaving them with two successive defeats against sides placed in UEFA’s top 10 coefficient rankings.
Belgium find a lift despite key absences
Belgium enter the match with a confidence-building 2-0 win over Italy behind them, even if Italy have again struggled to sustain their form in competitive football.
Mika Godts made the difference in that victory, scoring the opening goal while Leandro Trossard and Jérémy Doku were unavailable. Belgium had also pushed Spain hard in their World Cup elimination before Mikel Merino struck in the 88th minute for the eventual champions.
Where to watch
- The Nations League fixture will be shown on L’Équipe Live.
- It will also be broadcast on the L’Équipe television channel.
