France strike four times late to stun Van Bommel’s Belgium

Belgium surrendered a one-goal lead as four late France goals transformed their Nations League meeting at the Stade de France into a 4-1 defeat. Van Bommel’s side had been on course for an important victory before the hosts produced a decisive final-quarter surge.

France made the brighter start, forcing goalkeeper Maarten Vandevoordt to deny Bradley Barcola after 15 minutes. Belgium nevertheless opened the scoring shortly after the half-hour mark. Roméo Lavia delivered an incisive pass in behind the French defence, and Dodi Lukebakio kept his composure to finish for 0-1.

Clear chances remained limited after the break until Zinédine Zidane turned to his substitutes. Michael Olise immediately tested Vandevoordt, who also kept out an effort from Rayan Cherki, while Nathan Ngoy blocked another attempt from Barcola. Van Bommel responded with changes of his own, including the introduction of Mika Godts, but Belgium could not preserve their advantage.

Desiré Doué equalised with a low finish with just under 15 minutes remaining. Three minutes later, Olise accelerated away and supplied Cherki for the goal that put France ahead. Belgium could not recover from that quick turnaround, and Olise added two late goals to complete the scoring. France now lead the group with ten points, followed by Italy on seven and Belgium on six. Belgium will face Turkey and Italy in November.