Randal Kolo Muani struck twice as France edged past Belgium 2-1 in Brussels, moving them a step closer to the Nations League quarterfinals.
Despite Aurelien Tchouaméni’s late red card, France held on for a crucial victory in League A Group 2.
Kolo Muani opened the scoring from the penalty spot after a Wout Faes handball, but Lois Openda leveled for Belgium in first-half stoppage time, capitalizing on a period of pressure after Youri Tielemans had missed a penalty for the hosts.
Kolo Muani secured the win for France with a second-half header, ensuring they remain in contention for a quarterfinal spot despite Tchouaméni’s dismissal for a second yellow card with 14 minutes to go.
“It was a great evening, not an easy match because we knew the Belgians would cause us problems,” said France goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who made six saves in the match. “The most important thing is to have won.”
Belgium, who were without Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, had hoped to end their long wait for a competitive win over France. Despite creating several chances, their finishing proved wasteful.
After Tielemans’ missed penalty, France were awarded a spot-kick of their own when Faes handled the ball in the box. Kolo Muani made no mistake, giving France the lead.
Openda’s equalizer just before halftime, a well-timed header from Timothy Castagne’s cross, brought Belgium back into the game.
France regained the lead in the 62nd minute when Kolo Muani headed in Lucas Digne’s cross, although Belgium goalkeeper Koen Casteels might feel he could have done better.
Despite Tchouaméni’s late sending off, France held firm to secure the victory.
“We played a good match and still lost. That is the quality of France. They can score out of nothing,” conceded Belgium defender Faes.
With this win, France moves to nine points in Group 2, one point behind leaders Italy. Belgium remains on four points, while Israel is yet to register a point. The top two teams will advance to the quarterfinals in March.
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