Zinedine Zidane’s France have begun their Nations League campaign with a statement of intent, and Michael Olise’s 88th-minute strike against Belgium was the perfect embodiment of their newfound momentum. The Bayern Munich midfielder, who shone at the World Cup as France reached the semifinals, arrived on the pitch as a substitute in the 77th minute and within 11 minutes had delivered the winner—a low, curling drive into the bottom right corner that silenced the King Baudouin Stadium. The goal wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a tactical masterclass in how Zidane’s side exploit defensive complacency, turning a goalless stalemate into a three-point haul with precision timing.
The match had all the hallmarks of a Nations League fixture where possession and structure would dictate the outcome. France dominated long stretches of play, controlling both possession and field position, while Belgium relied on direct counterattacks and set-piece threats. Yet, it was the visitors’ ability to create danger in the final third—particularly through their wide channels—that ultimately proved decisive. Substitutes Rayan Cherki and Olise, introduced together, combined seamlessly, with Cherki’s 10 completed passes in the final 11 minutes setting up the goal. Olise’s movement from deep inside his own half, a hallmark of his Bayern playmaking, exposed Belgium’s defensive vulnerabilities, leaving goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance to save.
The absence of Kylian Mbappé, injured for this fixture, had raised questions about France’s attacking firepower, but the late winner proved that Zidane’s squad is far more than a one-man show. Desire Doue’s header off the bar in the first half and N’Golo Kanté’s absence (replaced by Manu Kone) had hinted at a lack of early impact, but the tactical flexibility of the bench—particularly the introduction of Olise and Cherki—turned the tide. Belgium’s own substitutes, including Dodi Lukebakio, failed to find an equalizer, their chances (0.20 xG for Lukebakio) falling short of the clinical finish France delivered.
With this victory, France now sit atop UEFA Nations League Group A1, having secured their second win under Zidane in as many matches. The result wasn’t just about the goal; it was about the confidence Zidane has instilled in his squad, particularly in their ability to manufacture chances from deeper positions. Olise’s performance—both in his movement and his finishing—reinforced the narrative that France’s future lies not just in their star players, but in the depth and adaptability of their squad. As the Nations League progresses, this kind of late drama will be the difference between qualification and disappointment.
For Belgium, the loss underscores the challenges of competing against a France side that has refined its tactical approach under Zidane. While their direct play and set-piece threats remain a threat, the inability to break down a structured midfield and exploit the space behind it will be a recurring issue. Olise’s goal wasn’t just a personal highlight; it was a reminder that in modern football, the ability to turn defense into attack in the final minutes is often the deciding factor—and France, under Zidane, have mastered that art.
