Belgium Prepare for France Clash as Van Bommel Faces Zidane

BRUSSELS, Belgium — Belgium host France on Monday in a UEFA Nations League Group A1 meeting between two teams that began the campaign with victories under new coaches. Belgium opened their campaign with a 2-0 win away to Italy, while France defeated Türkiye 1-0 in their first match under Zinedine Zidane. UEFA lists Belgium vs France among Monday's Group A1 fixtures. UEFA.com Belgium build on winning start Mark van Bommel began his tenure as Belgium coach with the victory in Rome. Mika Godts opened the scoring against Italy before substitute Dodi Lukébakio added a second goal to secure the three points. UEFA.com Belgium will now look to maintain that momentum against France, with Kevin De Bruyne among the experienced players expected to play an important role for Van Bommel's side. UEFA highlighted De Bruyne's performance in the opening victory and his influence on the team. UEFA.com France face Belgium without Mbappé France also began the Nations League with a win, beating Türkiye 1-0 through a second-half goal from Kylian Mbappé. The captain subsequently suffered an injury and is unavailable for the Belgium match. Reuters Zidane has indicated that changes will therefore be required for the trip to Brussels. The France coach is looking to build on his winning start while adjusting to the absence of his captain. The Straits Times UEFA notes that France have won their last five meetings with Belgium, although Belgium's most recent victory over their neighbours came in a 2015 friendly. The two sides last met in the previous edition of the Nations League, when France won 2-1 in Belgium. UEFA.com Belgium and France are both seeking a second consecutive victory in Group A1 when they meet in Brussels on Monday. Sources: Reuters; UEFA; The Straits Times