Zidane details France’s possession plan before Belgium

Zinédine Zidane has set out a clear identity for France before Monday’s meeting with Belgium, placing ball retention and immediate pressure at the centre of his approach. He wants his players to spend more time advancing with possession than chasing opponents without it.

The France coach explained that recovering the ball high up the pitch should reduce the distance his team must cover when attacking. Winning it deep can leave the side with around 80 metres to travel before reaching the other goal, making quick regains a key part of his plan.

Zidane also pointed to technically gifted players such as Luca Da Cunha and Rayan Cherki as important to that style. He said the players have shown a willingness to apply the idea and that their understanding on the pitch matters most. The approach is beginning to take shape, although he believes France still need to improve in the final third and move the ball faster.

The coach said possession has long been central to his footballing outlook. His immediate challenge is to turn that control into greater efficiency near goal while maintaining the pressure needed to recover the ball quickly.