Jérémy Jacquet wins France debut but demands more

Jérémy Jacquet made a successful first appearance for France, helping keep Belgium under control in the Nations League. The 21-year-old defender, making his first start for the national team, was pleased with the result but remained critical of his own contribution.

France defeated Belgium 1-0 on Monday, with Jacquet forming the centre-back pairing with Maxence Lacroix. Charles De Ketelaere, deployed as Belgium’s forward, struggled to influence the match as the French defence limited his involvement. Jacquet was particularly dissatisfied with several attacking situations in which he recovered possession but felt he could have used the ball better.

The Liverpool defender had known two days before the match that he would start. He said the advance notice allowed him to prepare mentally, while praising coach Zinedine Zidane for staying close to the players and communicating clearly. Jacquet also noted that Zidane’s limited squad and the changes made for the second game gave younger and less experienced players an opportunity.

Despite the strong introduction, Jacquet is not presenting himself as an automatic starter. He intends to progress gradually and remain focused, with his family helping him stay grounded and avoid becoming carried away by the occasion.