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France vs Belgium Nations League Clash: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

On Monday, France welcomes Belgium to Saint-Denis for their 80th encounter, continuing a long-standing rivalry that dates back to 1904. The previous meeting saw Les Bleus clinch a narrow 1-0 victory.

France currently leads Group 1 in League A of the UEFA Nations League, remaining unbeaten since Zinédine Zidane took charge. His debut win came against Türkiye with a 1-0 scoreline, followed by another 1-0 success versus Belgium. A home match against Italy ended in a 1-1 draw, marking the only blemish on France’s record so far.

The Red Devils trail by just one point, showing promise under new coach Mark van Bommel. Despite a late defeat to France, they secured convincing wins against Italy and Türkiye, lifting spirits after a disappointing World Cup.

Match History and Context

The two neighbors first played over a century ago, starting with a thrilling 3-3 draw in Brussels. Since then, France has gained the upper hand, winning the last six matches between the sides across all competitions. Belgium’s only recent win was a 4-3 thriller at Stade de France.

What to Expect in This Match

France could have won by a wider margin last time but struggled to convert chances despite dominating shots and expected goals. Two times they hit the woodwork, underscoring their attacking strength.

Belgium faces a tough challenge without key midfielders Youri Tielemans and Kevin De Bruyne, both suspended. De Bruyne leads Belgium in goal involvements this Nations League campaign, making his absence particularly significant.

France has kept two clean sheets during the international break and may well add a third against a weakened Belgian side.

Prediction

We think France will secure a 2-0 victory over Belgium.

Expected Lineups

France (4-3-3)

  • Goalkeeper: Maignan
  • Defenders: Pierre Kalulu, Jérémy Jacquet, Maxence Lacroix, Adrien Truffert
  • Midfielders: Amine Cherki, Eduardo Camavinga, Adrien Rabiot
  • Forwards: Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué

Zidane must reshuffle his defense after Dayot Upamecano's suspension. Jacquet pairs with Lacroix at center-back, while Kalulu and Truffert cover fullback positions. Camavinga could start in midfield, replacing Lucas Da Cunha. The front three remains unchanged, though star Kylian Mbappé is sidelined due to injury.

Belgium (4-3-3)

  • Goalkeeper: Lammens
  • Defenders: Timothy Castagne, Nathan Ngoy, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper
  • Midfielders: Nicolas Raskin, Roméo Lavia, Hans Vanaken
  • Forwards: Dodi Lukébakio, Charles De Ketelaere, Mika Godts

Belgium faces a depleted midfield without Tielemans and De Bruyne. Lavia and Raskin are expected to step in alongside Vanaken. The forward line will see competition between Lukébakio and Moreira for a wide spot. Lammens starts in goal as Thibaut Courtois opted out of the Nations League.

Match Details

  • Location: Saint-Denis, France
  • Stadium: Stade de France
  • Date: Monday, October 6
  • Kick-off Time: 2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT / 7:45 p.m. BST
  • Referee: Nicholas Walsh (Scotland)
  • VAR: Andrew Dallas (Scotland)

Broadcast Information

  • United States: fuboTV, ViX
  • Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
  • Mexico: Sky Sports Mexico, Sky+, izzi
  • United Kingdom: Amazon Prime Video

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