France vs Belgium – July 2, 2024 | In a gripping match that underscored the fierce rivalry and high stakes of European football, France clinched a victory over Belgium, moving into the quarter-finals of UEFA EURO 2024. This intense round-of-16 clash, held on a brisk evening in Düsseldorf, concluded with a decisive own goal by Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen.
Match Summary
- Result: France emerged victorious, winning 1-0 against Belgium.
- Goal: Jan Vertonghen scored for France in the 85th minute.
- Mbappe’s Mask: France captain Kylian Mbappe played with a protective mask due to a broken nose sustained earlier in the tournament. He found it uncomfortable but persevered.
Match Statistics
France:
- Yellow Cards: 3
- Total Shots: 18
- Shots On Target: 2
- Ball Possession Percentage: 52%
- Fouls: 7
- Goals Conceded: 0
- Goals Scored: 1 (Jan Vertonghen’s goal in the 85th minute)
Belgium:
- Yellow Cards: 2
- Total Shots: 5
- Shots On Target: 2
- Ball Possession Percentage: 48%
- Fouls: 10
- Goals Conceded: 1
Team Line-ups
- France: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernández; Tchouameni, Kanté, Rabiot; Thuram (Kolo Muani 62′), Griezmann, Mbappé.
- Belgium: Casteels; Castagne (De Ketelaere 88′), Faes, Vertonghen, Theate; Openda (Mangala 64′), Onana, Carrasco (Lukébakio 88′); De Bruyne, Lukaku, Doku.
Key Highlights of France vs Belgium Match
As the match unfolded, both teams exhibited strategic caution intertwined with bursts of aggressive play, reflecting their deep familiarity and respect for each other’s capabilities.
- First Half Dynamics: The game kicked off with both sides testing each other’s defenses. France, adopting a more offensive stance, made several attempts to breach Belgium’s solid five-man backline. Notably, Kevin De Bruyne for Belgium delivered a stunning free-kick that nearly materialized into a goal but was skillfully thwarted by French goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
- France’s Persistent Efforts: Throughout the match, France showed increasing dominance with Marcus Thuram and Kylian Mbappé making notable, albeit unsuccessful, attempts on goal. Aurélien Tchouameni also emerged as a key player, constantly challenging Belgian keeper Koen Casteels.
- Belgium’s Resilience: Belgium, known for their counter-attacking prowess, found opportunities through Romelu Lukaku who tested Maignan with a robust strike. Despite fewer chances, Belgium’s tactical discipline kept them in the game until a fateful moment in the 85th minute when Vertonghen accidentally deflected Randal Kolo Muani’s shot into his own net, tilting the match in France’s favor.
Defining Moments of the France vs Belgium Encounter
The singular goal that decided the match’s outcome came late, following waves of French attacks that had increasingly put the Belgian defense under pressure. It epitomized the high tension and slim margins that often decide critical knockout games in major tournaments like UEFA EURO 2024.
Player of the Match: Jules Koundé (France)
Jules Koundé received well-deserved recognition for his performance. Exceptionally strong in defensive challenges and invaluable in offensive support, Koundé played a crucial role throughout the game. His skill in delivering precise crosses added depth to France’s attacking strategy, while his solid defensive plays kept potential Belgian threats at bay.
Impactful Statistics from France vs Belgium Game
- France has consistently reached the quarter-finals in six of the past seven major tournaments.
- Historical head-to-head records now show France leading with five wins in major tournament matches against Belgium.
- Despite a robust performance in international matches, this game marked only the second defeat for Belgium in their last 18 international outings.
Conclusion
This victory not only underscores France’s tactical proficiency and mental toughness but also highlights their status as a formidable force in international football. As they prepare for the quarter-finals, Les Bleus continues to build on their legacy, showcasing a blend of experienced strategy and youthful vigor. Conversely, Belgium, while unfortunate to exit, displayed a commendable level of skill and resilience that promises exciting future prospects.
What’s Next?
Looking forward, fans worldwide can anticipate a thrilling continuation of UEFA EURO 2024 as France advances with confidence and Belgium reflects on a narrow yet impactful defeat.
