Belgium vs France Ends in Late Olise Masterclass
Belgium vs France delivered a thrilling finish on Monday, September 28, 2026, as Michael Olise settled the contest with a stunning 88th-minute solo goal. The UEFA Nations League clash was played at King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. However, the result took nearly the entire match to arrive, despite France dominating for long stretches.
Why This Belgium vs France Match Mattered
This wasn’t just a routine group fixture. Belgium vs France carried real weight for both sides in the Nations League A1 group.
Here’s why it stood out:
- It marked Zinedine Zidane’s second match in charge of France.
- The win gave France two wins from two in the group stage.
- France played without star striker Kylian Mbappe, who was ruled out after a knee injury in the previous match against Turkey.
Additionally, Zidane made nine changes to his starting lineup following France’s 1-0 win over Turkey days earlier, testing squad depth against a strong Belgian side.
How Michael Olise Won the Match
The Buildup
France dominated large parts of Belgium vs France, creating several clear chances before the breakthrough finally came. Désiré Doué hit the crossbar earlier in the match, and Esteban Lepaul had a golden opportunity when he found only the goalkeeper to beat, but directed his effort straight at Senne Lammens.
The Winning Goal
Olise entered as a substitute in the 76th or 77th minute, replacing Bradley Barcola. Just over ten minutes later, he delivered the decisive moment. Taking the ball down inside his own half, Olise set off on a driving solo run, beating four Belgian defenders before slotting a cool finish into the bottom corner.
As a result, what had been a goalless, tense affair turned into a deserved France victory in the closing stages.
Belgium’s Chances in the Match
Belgium were not without opportunities in Belgium vs France. The hosts broke forward on the counter-attack at times, and Kevin De Bruyne produced a dangerous cutback into the box. However, none of his teammates arrived in time to convert the chance, leaving Belgium empty-handed despite a spirited performance.
Zinedine Zidane’s Reaction
France’s new head coach was visibly thrilled with Olise’s contribution. According to Yahoo Sports, Zidane could barely contain his excitement after the goal, praising Olise’s overall game. Consequently, the moment reinforced growing belief that Zidane sees the Bayern Munich winger as a central figure in his rebuilding France side.
Michael Olise’s Rising Form
Belgium vs France continued a hot streak for Olise, who has been in outstanding form for both club and country. He recorded 11 goals and 17 assists in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season for Bayern Munich, and this latest strike adds to a growing reputation as a difference-maker off the bench for France.
Match Snapshot
- Competition: UEFA Nations League, Group A1
- Final score: Belgium 0-1 France
- Venue: King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels
- Date: September 28, 2026
- Goal scorer: Michael Olise (88′)
Common Questions About Belgium vs France
Who scored in Belgium vs France?
Michael Olise scored the only goal of the match in the 88th minute.
Did Kylian Mbappe play in Belgium vs France?
No, Mbappe was absent due to a knee injury sustained in France’s previous match against Turkey.
Who is France’s head coach?
Zinedine Zidane, who took charge of the team ahead of this Nations League campaign.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t assume Olise started the match — he came on as a substitute and still delivered the winner.
- Don’t overlook France’s overall dominance; the scoreline was close, but chances created heavily favored France.
- Don’t confuse this result with a friendly — it was a competitive Nations League Group A1 fixture.
Conclusion
Belgium vs France showcased exactly why Michael Olise has become such an exciting figure in Zinedine Zidane’s rebuilt France side, turning a tense, goalless contest into a statement win with one moment of brilliance. With France now two wins from two in Group A1, all eyes will be on whether Olise can continue his hot streak in the matches ahead.
