France Secures Victory Against Belgium with Olise's Brilliant Goal, Zidane's Fiery Celebration

Following a 1-0 win in Turkey, Zinedine Zidane's French team achieved another 1-0 victory against Belgium in their second Nations League match. The spirited French side now leads their group alone.

Player Performances and Reactions

Lucas Da Cunha impressed in his midfield debut. Maxence Lacroix was solid in defense, and Désiré Doué stood out in attack. Esteban Lepaul was less prominent in his first start up front.

Zidane commented on his animated celebration: "I saw him [Olise] dribble, and I thought he was going to score. I was fully with him. Tonight, we were very good everywhere, in our pressing. We implemented things against a good Belgian team. We held on, we were courageous, we weren't afraid to go into their half, which is what I like. What's great is that everyone is involved, that's what we love."

"We were dominant, and it's quite logical considering the whole match. We were deserving, and in the end, we managed to score that goal. With the game we played, we deserved to score that little goal. We really controlled this match well."

Regarding Lucas Da Cunha's performance, Zidane stated: "Very happy, especially since it's not easy as it's his first cap, and he's joining a group he doesn't know. He played as he usually does, as I wanted him to, which is to play freely."

On Michael Olise: "He's pure talent. He's a player, and I like players; he wants to please, he understands the game, he senses opportunities, when to go, when to hold back. I'm happy to be by his side."

About Désiré Doué: "It worked very well down the flank. Their two full-backs were high up the pitch, and they tracked players defensively. All my players were very good; it's hard to single out one. I'm happy with everything I saw tonight. It's a team, and we showed it in both matches."

On a potential starting eleven: "We are all involved. What I like about this team is that everyone feels involved. I don't want players to think they won't play. Then it's up to me to make the choices. But everyone must be ready."

Looking ahead to the match against Italy: "Am I eager to play it? No, because we need to rest. Right now, I'm eager for my players to recover, to have time for themselves. We'll go back to Clairefontaine. Everything in its own time." (TF1)

Jérémie Jacquet commented: "As a defender, there's nothing better, especially with the win at the end. I can only be happy. My performance? Satisfied, no. I think about two or three offensive balls I recovered where I could have done better. But overall, I'm happy; we're leaving with three points. We had a slight dip in the second half. The goal was to adapt quickly; we had little training, but the result is there in the end."

"To establish myself as a starter? I won't get into that. I'm taking my time and not stressing. Whatever happens, will happen. I have a family behind me who will keep me grounded if needed, and I try not to get a big head and stay calm."

"The coach told me two days before (his start), I think it was to get me mentally prepared early. He's generally very close to us; if he has something to say, he tells us. He gives opportunities to show ourselves; there are many changes in this second match, and everyone took their chance. He picked a small squad, so I don't think he's afraid to play young players or those with few caps."

"He talks a lot with the senior players. When he has something to say, he makes it known. He's quite close to the team; he says what needs to be said, calmly."

Esteban Lepaul shared: "We played a good match, a good first half, coherent overall. We made some adjustments at halftime. Everyone supports everyone. My first cap? Very good, I felt good, I have a few things to get used to. The essential thing is that we won." (TF1)

Lucas Da Cunha on his debut: "We played a good match, we deserved to win. We're all relieved with Michael's goal. My match? The coach gave me his full confidence, told me to go for it, to do what I do at my club. I felt good on the field. It's not nothing; these are great emotions, great joy. I was in the second division a few years ago." (TF1)

Match Summary

Michael Olise's spectacular goal secured a vital 1-0 victory for France against Belgium. The French team displayed an engaging and refreshing performance, taking sole possession of the top spot in their group. Manager Zinedine Zidane's animated celebration on the touchline after Olise's goal highlighted his passion and the significance of the win.

The French team controlled much of the match, with players like Da Cunha and Doué showing promising performances. Despite facing pressure, particularly in the second half, France's defense held firm. The victory marks Zidane's second win as coach, building on their previous success.

The match saw several new players earn their first caps, with Da Cunha and Jacquet performing well. The team's dynamic play and ability to create chances were evident throughout, even hitting the woodwork twice.