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France Player Ratings vs Belgium: Olise and Doue Spark Stunning Late Comeback

At the Stade de France, France overcame a 0-1 deficit to defeat Belgium 4-1 in the UEFA Nations League. Most of the match saw Belgium, managed by Mark van Bommel, holding the lead thanks to Dodi Lukebakio’s goal in the 35th minute. Despite France controlling possession with 61% and generating an expected goals (xG) of 2.38, breaking down Belgium’s compact defense was difficult.

The match changed dramatically in the last 14 minutes as France’s fresh legs and tactical shifts brought a flurry of four goals. Young talents introduced late in the game turned the tide, overwhelming Belgium’s defense which had grown tired by that stage. France finished with 24 shots, including 9 on target, while Belgium managed only 5 attempts in total.

Goalkeeper & Defense

  • Guillaume Restes - 6/10: Had minimal action aside from making one save. Not at fault for Lukebakio’s opener and showed decent passing as France built from the back.
  • Leny Yoro - 7/10: Calm debut performance, using pace well to contain Romelu Lukaku and winning crucial aerial duels, helping limit Belgium to just two shots on target.
  • Maxence Lacroix - 6/10: Solid but unspectacular defensive presence. Maintained a high line and physicality though briefly caught out for the Belgian goal.
  • Jules Kounde - 7/10: Active in attack from right-back with frequent runs, though his crossing lacked accuracy. Kept Belgium’s right flank quiet defensively.
  • Andy Diouf - 6/10: Balanced left side defender, effective in defensive duties and contributed to shutting down Belgian counter-attacks.

Midfield

  • Eduardo Camavinga - 7/10: Controlled midfield tempo, recycling possession and delivering key passes to sustain pressure. Replaced late by Adrien Rabiot.
  • Manu Kone - 6/10: Added toughness but struggled to create decisive passes against Belgium’s deep block; substituted after 60 minutes.
  • Maghnes Akliouche - 6/10: Quiet display, often unable to find space between the lines. Part of early substitutions that sparked the comeback.

Attack

  • Ousmane Dembele - 6/10: As captain, he was frustrated by Belgium’s disciplined defense. Attempted many dribbles but failed to create clear chances and was subbed off at 60 minutes.
  • Bradley Barcola - 6/10: Showed speed but was tightly marked. Managed some dribbles but couldn’t break through before being replaced by Desire Doue.
  • Esteban Lepaul - 6/10: Led the line but isolated without much service, limiting his impact on Belgium’s goalkeeper.

Substitutes & Manager Impact

  • Desire Doue - 9/10: The turning point. Entered at 72 minutes, scored the equalizer five minutes later, then assisted two more goals. His introduction completely shifted momentum.
  • Michael Olise - 9/10: Came on at 60 minutes and changed the dynamic immediately. Assisted the go-ahead goal and scored twice himself in the final minutes, showcasing exceptional vision and finishing.
  • Rayan Cherki - 8/10: Scored the decisive third goal with composure and skill in tight spaces. Another vital substitute who brought creativity when it was needed most.
  • Lucas Da Cunha - 7/10: Replaced Kone and provided the assist for Doue’s equalizer, helping turn the tide with his energy.
  • Adrien Rabiot - N/A: Came on in stoppage time to help close out the win.
  • Zinedine Zidane - 9/10: His substitutions were perfectly timed and transformed the team’s fortunes. Recognizing the need for fresh attacking spark, Zidane’s choices led to a remarkable turnaround from a potential loss to a convincing win.

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