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France hosts Belgium in Nations League A1 showdown October 5, 2026

By Drooid · Oct 6, 2026, 12:49 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

France will host Belgium in a Nations League A1 match on October 5, 2026.
France lead Group A1 with seven points, Belgium second with six, despite missing Kylian Mbappé (forward) and Dayot Upamecano (defender).
Belgium miss Kevin De Bruyne (midfielder) and captain Youri Tielemans while Zinedine Zidane (coach) promises “smart changes” after Italy draw.
Amine Olise (midfielder) has contributed a goal or assist in every group game, making him France’s influential player.

History

Historical Context

The 12 July 1998 World Cup final in Saint-Denis saw host France defeat Brazil 3-0 before 80,000 fans, giving France its first title and making it the sixth nation to win on home soil. Zidane’s two goals launched his global fame, and the triumph sparked nationwide celebrations of over 1.5 million people, a legacy echoed in today’s France-Belgium Nations League clash.

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Story summary

France will host Belgium in a Nations League A1 match on October 5, 2026.
France lead Group A1 with seven points, Belgium second with six, despite missing Kylian Mbappé (forward) and Dayot Upamecano (defender).
Belgium miss Kevin De Bruyne (midfielder) and captain Youri Tielemans while Zinedine Zidane (coach) promises “smart changes” after Italy draw.
Amine Olise (midfielder) has contributed a goal or assist in every group game, making him France’s influential player.

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