Michael Olise’s late goal disappoints Red Devils
In the Nations League‑match in Brussels, Belgium lost in the dying minutes to France after Michael Olise delivered a brilliant strike, leaving the Red Devils trailing 0‑1. “We deserved a draw,” said Brandon Mechele, while the disappointment among the players was evident on the pitch.
Critical phase and goal
Michael Olise turned the match in the final minutes with a long run, dribbled past two French defenders and placed a well‑placed ball into the corner, a brilliant strike that gave French goalkeeper Senne Lammens no chance. Brandon Mechele called it a ‘pity that the goal came so late’.
The Red Devils had created several chances earlier in the match, but the defence held firm until the last minute. It was a disappointing turn for Belgium, who now trail by one point in the Nations League.
Reactions, substitutions and analysis
Roméo Lavia, who many saw as the standout of the evening, spoke about his role: “I am a number six who thinks ahead, a true calf‑biter who never gives up.” He admitted that he was ‘disillusioned’ and prefers not to talk about himself when the result is against him. In the post‑match analysis even one Devil was mentioned who received a tube for a foul. Our head coach praised the collective effort: “We played attractive football, sat lower in the block than against Italy and pressed at the right moments.”
Three Belgian players miss the clash with France at King Baudouin Stadium
The final substitutions were introduced by head coach Van Bommel; Romelu Lukaku remained on the bench. Roméo Lavia made a painful grimace and seemed to massage his calf, while Nicolas Raskin and Matias Fernandez‑Pardo were ready to come on. Tielemans delivered an excellent cross to Lukebakio, who with a shot almost surprised French goalkeeper Maignan, but the ball ended as a weak follow‑up. Kevin De Bruyne received a yellow card and was replaced by Hans Vanaken, who also received a warning for a hard tackle on Kalulu.
French influences and aftermath
Zinedine Zidane, the head coach of Les Bleus, briefly showcased French quality with Olise and Cherki creating extra danger. Goalkeeper Maignan could easily gather most attempts, but the French PSG winger remained a constant threat. Via De Ketelaere the assist of Lukebakio was highlighted again, although he ultimately could not finish the ball.
The atmosphere in the King Baudouin Stadium was described by the supporters as fantastic, despite the disappointment. The team remains optimistic and looks forward to the next Nations League‑match to make up the missed points.
Steven Defour says Nations League overloads Red Devils
With the 0‑1 defeat the Red Devils remain disappointed and must analyse the match thoroughly before stepping back into the fray on Friday. What the coach wants is clear: the focus is on better finishing and converting chances into points, so Belgium can improve its position in the Nations League.