Olise and Upamecano shine: Bayern stars play a decisive role in France’s victory | OneFootball

France kicks off the Zidane era with a win. Two Bayern stars play a decisive role in the 1-0 victory over Turkey.

A successful start for the French national team under Zinédine Zidane—and right in the thick of it are two FC Bayern players. In the 1-0 victory in Turkey, both Michael Olise and Dayot Upamecano impressed. While Olise set up the decisive goal, Upamecano put in a strong defensive performance.

France struggled for a long time in Kocaeli. Turkey defended tightly and repeatedly forced the favorites to be patient. Nevertheless, one of the most notable offensive players was Olise.

Just 17 minutes in, the 24-year-old held his own against several defenders and set up Kylian Mbappé, whose shot missed the goal. Shortly before halftime, Olise himself created a dangerous chance: His shot toward the top left corner was brilliantly saved by Turkish goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir.

The Bayern Munich pro was also involved in one of France’s best attacking sequences of the first half. Olise combined with Ousmane Dembélé and Rayan Cherki to break through the Turkish defense, before Cherki’s shot was blocked.

Olise Sets Up the Game-Winning Goal – Upamecano Clears the Ball

After the break, Olise ultimately played a decisive role in the only goal of the evening. France won the ball back with aggressive pressing; the Munich player then kept his composure and found Mbappé. The Real Madrid star scored in the 54th minute to make it 1-0.

For Mbappé, however, the match was over shortly afterward. The forward apparently injured his knee during the play and had to be substituted. Zidane expressed concern afterward: “Unfortunately, it doesn’t look good.” The national team coach added: “I think he’ll have to head back.”

Photo: IMAGO

While Olise made an impact on offense, Upamecano was impressive throughout the entire 90 minutes in the French defense. The 27-year-old recorded eleven ball recoveries, three interceptions, three clearances, and two blocks. The center back won five of his six tackles and wasn’t dribbled past even once.

Upamecano also looked solid with the ball at his feet. Of 89 passes, he completed 78 to teammates, for a success rate of just under 88 percent. In total, the Bayern star had 104 touches and 38 dribbles.

In the end, France held on to its narrow lead, giving Zidane a successful debut. It was also good news for FC Bayern: With Olise as the key assist provider and a defensively strong Upamecano, two Munich players were among the standout performers in France’s opening victory.