France make nine changes, Belgium limit the turnover
Mark van Bommel unveiled on Sunday at noon in Tubize the lineup of Belgium against France, with nine changes for the Blues and a limited turnover for the Devils. The duel will be played on Monday at 20:45 at the King Baudouin Stadium, second matchday of Group A1 of the Nations League.
The Dutch coach explained that his players were informed before the final training session, in order to benefit from an additional clear session. “My players are briefed before the final training, which allows for one clearer session for everyone,” he said.
He highlighted the difference with Roberto Martinez, who presented his eleven three hours before kickoff, and with Xavi, who announced it two hours before. This anticipation, according to van Bommel, enhances the focus of the groups.
Team announcements
In midfield, Roméo Lavia is in the starting eleven for the first time, strengthening the Belgian core. In defense, Joaquin Seys takes Maxim De Cuyper’s place on the left, while Diego Moreira retains his position. The number nine will be occupied by CDK. Arthur Theate, Kyriani Sabbe and Malick Fofana are not included in the 23-man list.
Belgium brace for French test at Roi Baudouin as van Bommel steps up
On the French side, Kylian Mbappé, injured against Turkey, is absent and Zinedine Zidane handed the captain’s armband to Mike Maignan. Zidane indicated that he would rotate the squad against Belgium. According to Jonathan Lange of Sports Football, the manager made nine changes, fielding Maignon, Kalulu, Jacquet, Lacroix, Diouf, Camavinga, Da Cunha, Akliouche, Doué, Lepaul and Barcola.
Both teams face potential suspensions: for Belgium, Raskin, Moreira, Lavia, Fernandez‑Pardo and Lukaku; for France, Koné, Upamecano and Lepaul. Trossard and Penders are absent from the Belgian squad, while several French players remain on the bench.
Stakes and context
Referee Rade Obrenovic (Slovenia) will officiate the match. Three days after the Belgian victory over Italy, the Devils host the Blues at the King Baudouin Stadium, as part of the second matchday of Group A1.
Van Bommel looks forward to the duel with Zidane in the Nations League
Defender Castagne said: “Maybe not a revenge, but we would like to win this time.” Frédéric recalled that last year, Zinedine Zidane was Vincent Mannaert’s first choice for the Devils, convinced during the U19 training of Rik De Mil.