Michael Olise gives Zidane a second France victory

Michael Olise preserved Zinedine Zidane’s winning start as France coach, delivering a second victory in as many matches and keeping the team’s Nations League campaign on course. His late contribution also produced an emphatic touchline reaction from Zidane.

France defeated Belgium 1-0 in Brussels on Monday, three days after opening with a win over Turkey. Olise came on in the 77th minute for Bradley Barcola and settled the match 11 minutes later. After advancing with the ball, the Bayern Munich forward beat goalkeeper Lammens with a left-footed finish.

Zidane had made nine changes to the side that started against Turkey, with only Mike Maignan and Maxime Lacroix retaining their places. The reshuffled team still controlled much of the contest, despite having had limited time to build understanding. Olise’s goal prompted Zidane to strike a ball beside the touchline in celebration.

Desire Doue was France’s most influential player before the decisive moment. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder hit the crossbar in the 12th minute and remained dangerous through further opportunities in the 52nd, 56th and 62nd minutes. Although he did not score, his performance helped France maintain pressure before Olise supplied the breakthrough.