Michael Olise’s Late Solo Goal Gives France Victory Over Belgium

Michael Olise came off the bench to give France a late victory over Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium, producing an individual goal in the 88th minute after a frustrating evening for the visitors in front of goal.

Key takeaways

• Olise replaced Bradley Barcola in the 77th minute and settled the contest 11 minutes later.
• France played without the injured Kylian Mbappé but had 18 attempts, compared with Belgium’s 12.
• Désiré Doué struck the woodwork and debutant Lucas da Cunha also hit the post.
• Belgium used Mika Godts and Dodi Lukébakio on counter-attacks, testing goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
• France face Italy on Friday, while Belgium’s next assignment is away to Turkey.

Olise provides the decisive moment

France had controlled possession for long periods but found Belgium’s organised defensive shape difficult to unlock. Mark van Bommel’s side remained disciplined until the closing stages, despite sustained French pressure and a series of promising opportunities.

The breakthrough arrived through Olise’s quality. Collecting possession inside his own half, the former Crystal Palace winger brought the ball down with his shoulder before driving directly at the Belgian defence. He evaded his marker and carried the move into the penalty area, then placed a low finish into the bottom corner.

Zinedine Zidane reacted enthusiastically on the touchline and later praised both the winger’s flair and his understanding of the game. The France coach said he felt Olise would score once he had beaten his first opponent, adding that the forward plays to excite supporters while also recognising when to press forward and when to retreat.

Doué was France’s most frequent shooter, registering five attempts during an energetic display, while his effort against the frame and da Cunha’s near miss underlined the visitors’ inability to turn control into an earlier lead. Mbappé’s absence placed greater responsibility on France’s younger attacking players.

Belgium resist before late setback

Belgium remained dangerous when they could break quickly. Godts and Lukébakio offered pace in transition and forced Maignan into several saves, ensuring France could not take the result for granted even while enjoying more of the ball.

Van Bommel’s defence held firm for almost 90 minutes, but Olise’s run finally broke its resistance. The result maintains Zidane’s perfect record since taking charge of France following Didier Deschamps’ departure earlier this year, although there remains room for improvement in the team’s overall performances.

France now turn to Friday’s major meeting with Italy, seeking another win to strengthen their position at the top of the table. Belgium will attempt to recover from the defeat when they travel to face Turkey.