France left the Stade de France with a point against Italy, but little time to dwell on Gianluigi Donnarumma’s resistance. Zinédine Zidane’s side return to the same stadium on Monday night, with Belgium arriving for a Nations League meeting that could shape the group.
The 1-1 draw with Italy was France’s first stumble after two wins, yet Les Bleus remain top after three matches. They have seven points, one more than Belgium ahead of the return fixture.
Quick facts
- France host Belgium at the Stade de France on Monday at 20:45.
- Zinédine Zidane’s team lead the Nations League group with seven points.
- Belgium are second, one point behind France.
- France drew 1-1 with Italy after victories over Turkey and Belgium.
- The final two group fixtures are away to Italy on 12 November and at home to Turkey in Bordeaux on 15 November.
France opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory in Turkey. Kylian Mbappé scored in the 54th minute, before the Real Madrid forward left the field and subsequently withdrew from the international squad through injury.
The next match brought another 1-0 result, this time in Belgium. Michael Olise struck in the 88th minute to settle a game in which France produced a more convincing display.
Italy then halted the early winning run on Friday evening. France were held 1-1, with Donnarumma making seven saves in a performance that repeatedly denied Zidane’s players.
Monday’s contest is therefore more than a routine fourth game of the international break. Victory would give France extra breathing room over Mark van Bommel’s Belgium before the group concludes in November.
Les Bleus travel to Milan on 12 November for a 20:45 kick-off against Italy. Their group-stage campaign ends three days later, when Turkey visit Bordeaux for another 20:45 start.
