Even Zidane praises Lavia, but the Red Devil feels a rebirth

On Monday 5 October 2026, at 23:34, Belgium lost to France 4‑1, but midfielder Roméo Lavia delivered a brilliant assist to Dodi Lukebakio for the opening goal. Even Zidane praised Lavia’s “magisterial ball” during the press conference, while Lavia himself spoke of a feeling of rebirth. The match showed both a moment of pure magic and a disappointing ending.

Sport Overview and Terminology

The article opens with an overview in which the terms Football, Cycling, Tennis, Formula 1, Basketball, Cyclo-cross, calendar, Matches, Programs and Highlights are listed. Then follow the names Jupiler Pro League, Challenger Pro League, Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, More football: Nations League, Article and the name Roméo Lavia, which sketch the full sport context.

Performance against France

In the first half Lavia sent a deep ball from his own half to Lukebakio, who marked the 0‑1. The assist was praised as a “golden calling card” of Lavia’s class. Despite the attacks that had until then collided with the French dam, he broke the defence effortlessly.

Zidane admitted that he “had to review his step again during the break”, thereby emphasizing Lavia’s technical quality. This recognition came during the same press conference in which Lavia remained modest about the defeat.

Lavia, who spent 631 days on Chelsea’s sidelines due to injury, described the moment as a renaissance. “It has been a long time since I felt this good,” he said, adding that a lot of work had been put into the preparation.

The second half was dominated by France, who scored four goals in the final quarter. Lavia called this “an immense disappointment” and indicated that the team felt less control after the break, although they still stood solidly. The two late goals were a “blow” for him.

Finally, Lavia emphasized that there are still two important matches ahead. “We must now collect points and improve as much as possible,” he concluded, with an eye on the upcoming challenges.