Michael Olise’s Late Winner Sends France Top After Belgium Victory
Michael Olise struck in the 88th minute to give France victory in Belgium, sending Les Bleus top of their UEFA Nations League group on six points.
Match facts
| Item | Figure | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Winning goal | 88th minute | Olise completed a solo run |
| France points | 6 | Les Bleus lead the group |
| Next match | Friday | France face Italy |
France coach Zinedine Zidane was swept up by Olise’s late individual effort, following the midfielder’s dribbles along the technical area before kicking a loose ball near the bench in celebration. The strike was hit with such force that Zidane narrowly avoided an embarrassing injury.
The 1998 World Cup winner later laughed off the episode and said the quality of Olise’s move had taken over. Zidane said he could scarcely explain his own reaction, adding that he had tracked Michael’s run because he sensed the dribbles were coming.
“He produced an exceptional action,” Zidane said. “Then I saw the ball and had to kick it. It was a little ridiculous, but it does not matter.”
The result gives France a strong platform before Friday’s major meeting with Italy. Belgium, coached by Mark van Bommel, have suffered their first loss of the campaign and now sit behind both France and Italy in the battle for the leading places.
