France vs Belgium: Olise & Cherki Inspire Late 1-0 Win
France beat Belgium 1-0 in the Nations League as substitutes Michael Olise and Rayan Cherki combine to inspire a dramatic late victory in Brussels.
Two Substitutes. One Brilliant Combination. One Unforgettable Finish.
France secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on Monday, September 28, with substitute Michael Olise producing a stunning late winner in Brussels.
With the France vs Belgium clash seemingly heading for a goalless draw, Zinedine Zidane turned to his bench in the 77th minute, introducing Rayan Cherki and Michael Olise as France searched for a breakthrough.
The decision proved decisive.
Just 11 minutes after coming on, Cherki won possession and released Olise, who immediately drove forward from inside his own half. The Bayern Munich winger showed remarkable composure, evaded Belgium's challenge and cut onto his left foot before firing a low shot beyond goalkeeper Senne Lammens in the 88th minute.
It was a moment of individual brilliance from Olise and a perfect example of the impact France's substitutes could make.
Belgium had created opportunities of their own, but France's defence held firm as the hosts struggled to find a way through. France had also threatened throughout the match, with Désiré Doué among the players causing problems for the Belgian defence.
For Zidane, the victory means two wins from his first two matches as France manager. After beating Türkiye in his opening game, the former France captain has now seen his side collect another important Nations League victory.
The result also sends France to the top of their Nations League Group A1 with six points from two matches.
But the lasting image from Brussels will be Olise racing towards goal, with Cherki's pass starting the move and the Bayern star producing the finish that gave France all three points.
Two substitutes. One brilliant combination. One unforgettable finish.
