Mbappé absent as Zidane’s France seek momentum in Belgium Nations League test | OneFootball

Fresh from a hard-fought 1-0 win in Türkiye, Zinédine Zidane’s France visit Belgium on Monday at 20:45 in the Nations League, aiming to build momentum in a new era without Mbappé. Belgium are keen to respond.

Le Progres notes that Zidane must still wait for his first home match, with Italy due at Saint-Denis on two October, so Brussels hosts his second Nations League fixture.

France are unbeaten at King Baudouin Stadium for 45 years, though they have played only three times there in that span. Five straight victories over Belgium, an unprecedented run, suggest the momentum is theirs.

Ousmane Dembélé could be given a breather on the bench and the display in Izmit was imperfect. New ideas, pressing, balance and attacking freedom, are emerging gradually, and two extra sessions together will aid rhythm without changing everything. Zidane has framed the approach as wanting to carry the ball rather than chase it.

With a second match in three days and travel in between, he should rotate without overhauling a side still building understanding. Up to three changes are possible, with some players potentially used in roles different to their club positions.

In these early days, stakes are high for individuals and the path may not be linear. Belgium, winners in Italy, want to halt their neighbours. Zidane’s aim is to build while competing, learn from difficulties and set a long-term structure, while stressing the need to bond, keep a competitive edge and enjoy the moment as scrutiny intensifies.

Source: Le Progres

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