France turned a difficult night against Belgium into a commanding 4-1 win, but the final whistle did not yet bring a place in the Nations League quarter-finals. For a spell, with Les Bleus behind in the match, Didier Deschamps’ side had slipped to third in their group. Their response changed the picture completely.
The victory kept France at the top of the section and briefly raised the possibility of qualification being secured immediately. Italy’s 3-1 success over Turkey, however, delayed that outcome and ensured the race for the two qualifying places will continue into the next matchday.
Milan can settle France’s place
France remain in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals. A win or a draw against Italy in Milan on 12 November would be enough to guarantee one of the top two positions in the group.
Such a result would leave the French beyond the reach of either Italy or Belgium before the final round, when those two sides will meet each other. Turkey, beaten by Italy on Monday, are already out of contention.
The equation is therefore clear for France: after recovering against Belgium, they now have the chance to finish the job in Milan.
