Olise Double Seals Zidane’s First Home Win as France Beat Belgium 4-1

France strengthened their grip on Nations League Group 1 with a 4-1 home victory over Belgium, as Michael Olise’s late double helped deliver Zinedine Zidane’s first win at the Stade de France since taking charge.

Les Bleus now have 10 points at the top of the group, with the campaign set for a decisive finish in November. France will travel to Italy before hosting Turkiye in their final two fixtures.

Ousmane Dembele wore the captain’s armband in Kylian Mbappe’s absence, with the Real Madrid forward left out to continue his recovery. The Paris Saint-Germain attacker started on the right and was repeatedly involved as France tried to create openings, but he left the pitch without a goal contribution.

Dembele was replaced by Olise after 60 minutes, and the change transformed the attacking picture. Olise struck twice late on, while Rayan Cherki also added the creative spark France had lacked during periods of the match.

Zidane backs captain Dembele

Dembele’s display drew criticism despite the emphatic scoreline, but Zidane made clear that he had no concerns over his captain’s contribution.

“He was very good, particularly at the beginning of each half,” Zidane said. “He was lively and dynamic. There is no issue there.”

The France coach stressed that the substitution was not a verdict on Dembele’s performance. He praised the 29-year-old’s intensity, movement and capacity to operate across the front line.

“He can play in different areas and performs well wherever he is used,” Zidane added. “I am pleased with what he gave us. As captain, he set an example for the rest of the squad.”

France will now turn their attention to November, when a difficult trip to Italy could shape the final Group 1 standings before Turkiye arrive in France.