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With patience and minimal risk, France controlled Belgium and secured the victory with a late own goal, leaving the Red Devils with little time to respond.
Tactical Balance and Patience
In the 76th encounter between these well-acquainted neighbors, both teams displayed significant caution. Didier Deschamps, France’s coach, adjusted his attack by bringing back Griezmann to support Kylian Mbappé and Marcus Thuram. Domenico Tedesco, Belgium’s coach, also made changes up front, pairing Openda with Lukaku and positioning Carrasco and Dokú on the wings to capitalize on quick transitions.
Quiet First Half
France maintained greater possession, frequently advancing on the right flank where Koundé made deep runs. Belgium focused on quick transitions, utilizing Lukaku and Openda’s presence up front. The first half was strategic, with few clear opportunities. Kevin de Bruyne nearly surprised Maignan with a free-kick, but the best chance came from a Koundé cross to Thuram, whose header narrowly missed the bar.
France Intensifies Pressure
France stepped up their game in the second half, forcing Belgium to retreat defensively. The pressure from Les Bleus intensified, resulting in several long-range shots. Tchouaméni forced Casteels into a fine save, and Mbappé also tried from distance. Belgium had their first major chance when Carrasco, set up by De Bruyne, broke into the area, only to be denied by Théo Hernández’s crucial block.
Koundé remained a key figure on the right, creating more depth for France. Despite the pressure, the game seemed headed for extra time until Kolo Muani, who replaced Thuram, turned the game around with a shot that deflected off Vertonghen and deceived Casteels.
French Celebration, Belgian Frustration
France celebrated while Belgium struggled to find a late equalizer, ultimately falling short. Without much flair or scoring prowess, France progressed and might face Portugal in the quarter-finals, depending on the outcome of Roberto Martínez’s team against Slovenia.
Man of the Match: Jules Koundé
Jules Koundé was instrumental for France, consistently advancing on the right and creating the best offensive opportunities. His cross in the first half almost led to a goal, and he played a crucial role in the buildup to the winning goal.
France now awaits their next opponent in the quarter-finals, while Belgium reflects on their elimination in a tactically balanced match.