League A Group 1 delivers a blockbuster Derby of the Low Countries as Belgium welcome arch-rivals France. With both nations opening their campaigns with clean-sheet victories, this clash marks Mark van Bommel’s inaugural home test as Red Devils boss, while Zinedine Zidane faces his first tactical pu
Venue: King Power at Den Dreef
Local Kick-off Time: Sep 28, 2026 8.45pm
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Belgium
Van Bommel's Ideal Start & Home Resilience
Following a quarter-final exit at the 2026 World Cup, Belgian supporters will be hoping that Mark van Bommel's victorious debut signals the beginning of a fruitful cycle leading toward Euro 2028. The Red Devils secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Italy on Friday, courtesy of a first-half opener from Mika Godts and a late clincher from Dodi Lukebakio. Crucially, the result marked Belgium's first clean sheet in five international outings—an encouraging omen before facing Europe’s deepest attacking pool.
Monday’s encounter represents Van Bommel’s first home fixture in the dugout. In front of their own supporters, the Red Devils are traditionally formidable, carrying a nine-game unbeaten home run that includes six victories. Belgium have not tasted defeat as the nominal home side since November 2024, providing a rock-solid foundation to confront their old adversaries.
Overcoming the French Hoodoo
Despite their strong domestic form, Belgium face a stark psychological hurdle against Les Bleus: they have suffered defeat in each of their last five head-to-head meetings with France, a barren run dating back to June 2015. Overturning this long-standing dominance will be the definitive litmus test for Van Bommel’s evolving squad.
Team News & Projected Lineup
Absentees: Versatile Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a persistent heel complaint.
Attacking Framework: In-form Mika Godts is poised to start on the left flank, joining Kevin De Bruyne and Diego Moreira in an advanced attacking unit behind lone striker Charles De Ketelaere.
Defensive Setup: Nathan Ngoy is expected to partner Brandon Mechele at the heart of the rearguard, flanked by Timothy Castagne and Maxim De Cuyper in the fullback positions.
France
Zidane's Victorious Debut Tempered by Mbappe Blow
Didier Deschamps left enormous shoes to fill following a trophy-laden reign, and while successor Zinedine Zidane commands an immaculate managerial pedigree of his own, his new tenure began under mixed circumstances. France ground out a hard-fought 1-0 away victory against Turkey on Friday thanks to a trademark Kylian Mbappe strike. However, the performance was far from dominant: despite controlling 64% possession, Les Bleus produced a modest 1.17 expected goals (xG), trailing Turkey’s tally of 1.21.
To compound matters, Mbappe suffered a knee injury shortly after finding the net, ruling the Real Madrid superstar out for at least several weeks. Deprived of their chief goalscorer and attacking focal point, France must rely on their depth to dismantle Belgium’s backline.
Imposing Away Form & Head-to-Head Edge
Despite the absence of their talisman, France travel to Brussels brimming with confidence on the road. Les Bleus have registered eight wins and one draw across their last nine away fixtures in all competitions, showcasing exceptional tactical poise on foreign soil. Combined with their five-match winning streak against Belgium, the visitors retain a significant psychological advantage.
Tactical Realignment & Projected Lineup
Attacking Revamp: With Mbappe absent, Ousmane Dembele is anticipated to spearhead the attack through the center, flanked by the dynamic young duo of Michael Olise and Desire Doue out wide.
Midfield Engine: Manu Kone looks set to anchor the midfield alongside experienced campaigner Adrien Rabiot, while Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki is poised to operate in an advanced creative midfield role to link play.
