France produced a remarkable late comeback to beat Belgium 4-1 in the Nations League, scoring four goals in the final 13 minutes to maintain their unbeaten start under Zinedine Zidane.
Belgium looked on course for a famous victory after Dodi Lukebakio gave them the lead, but France produced a stunning late turnaround to take control of Group A1.
Lukebakio opened the scoring after making the most of a superb 60-yard through ball from Romeo Lavia. The Belgium forward raced through before calmly beating France debutant goalkeeper Guillaume Restes.
France responded by increasing the pressure and eventually found an equaliser through Desire Doue. The youngster’s low effort from outside the penalty area beat Belgium debutant Maarten Vandevoordt to make it 1-1.
The hosts then completed the turnaround when Rayan Cherki put France ahead. Cherki was found by fellow substitute Michael Olise and made no mistake with the finish.
Olise then took centre stage.
The Bayern Munich forward scored twice in the closing stages, with both goals coming from assists by Doue, completing a remarkable individual performance and sealing a convincing victory for France.
Olise’s latest goals continue his outstanding run at international level. He has now been directly involved in 17 goals in 16 appearances for France in 2026, underlining his growing importance to Zidane’s side.
The victory keeps France at the top of Nations League Group A1 with 10 points from four matches. Belgium remain third on six points.
Italy Move Into Second Place
Italy climbed to second in Group A1 after securing a 3-1 home victory over Turkey.
Gianluca Scamacca gave Italy the lead before Turkey responded through Aral Simsir.
Italy regained control when Riccardo Calafiori headed Roberto Mancini’s side back in front. Pio Esposito then added a third to secure all three points.
With France continuing to lead the group, Italy’s victory strengthens their position in the race for the top places, while Belgium will now need to respond in their remaining Nations League fixtures.
