Paris stages a decisive early turn in Nations League Group A1 on Monday, when unbeaten France welcome Belgium to the Stade de France. With only one point separating the sides after three rounds, the result will leave one team alone at the top of the section.
France arrive on seven points and remain the group’s only unbeaten side. Belgium are close behind on six, while Italy have four and Turkey are still waiting for their first point.
Quick facts
- Match: France v Belgium, Nations League Group A1, round four
- Date and time: Monday, 4 October, 15:45 Brasília time
- Venue: Stade de France, Paris
- Group positions: France 7 points, Belgium 6, Italy 4, Turkey 0
- Previous meeting: Belgium 0-1 France in Brussels, decided by Michael Olise in the 88th minute
- Broadcast: Disney+
The return fixture carries the weight of their September meeting in Brussels. Zinedine Zidane’s France escaped with a 1-0 victory after Olise scored seven minutes from time, a result that currently gives Les Bleus the edge in the standings.
A French win in Saint-Denis would extend their advantage, while Belgium can move ahead with victory in the French capital. Mark van Bommel’s side therefore travel knowing that the group lead is within reach.
Likely teams
France are expected to line up with Mike Maignan in goal; Jules Koundé, Jacquet, Maxime Lacroix and Adrien Truffert in defence; Manu Koné, Adrien Rabiot and Rayan Cherki in midfield; and Ousmane Dembélé, Olise and Désiré Doué across the attack.
Belgium’s probable selection is Lammens; Timothy Castagne, Ngoy, Brandon Mechele and Maxim De Cuyper; Youri Tielemans, Hans Vanaken and Kevin De Bruyne; with Dodi Lukebakio, Mika Godts and Charles De Ketelaere in the forward line.
