DUSSELDORF, Germany — France secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium in a Euro 2024 encounter that felt strikingly familiar for followers of Les Bleus. This win propels them into a highly anticipated quarterfinal showdown against Portugal, but the manner of victory once again highlighted the pragmatic, defense-first approach that has become the hallmark of this French national team.
The match itself, played out in Dusseldorf, was a tactical chess match, characterized more by strategic attrition than free-flowing attacking football. The combined shot count on target was a mere four, and the expected goals (xG) for the entire game totaled just 1.25, underscoring the cagey nature of the contest. However, within this tight affair, France’s core strengths were vividly on display. They suffocated Belgium’s attacking threats, meticulously closing down every avenue and potential opening towards their goal. France’s organization and structural discipline have been arguably the best on display at Euro 2024.
Belgium, in contrast, struggled to impose themselves. Coach Domenico Tedesco’s tactical setup, deploying a 4-4-2 formation featuring Amadou Onana and Kevin De Bruyne in central midfield, seemed to misfire. They lacked the creative spark or tactical flexibility to unlock the French defensive puzzle. Despite possessing talented individuals, Belgium appeared devoid of ideas, and even an extended playing time might not have altered the outcome against such a resolute French defense.
Yet, France’s own attacking endeavors were far from fluent. They unleashed 19 shots, but only two tested the Belgian goalkeeper. Ultimately, their breakthrough arrived via a fortunate 85th-minute own goal. Jan Vertonghen inadvertently deflected Randall Kolo Muani’s errant shot past his own keeper, Koen Casteels. This goal marked a continuation of a curious trend for France in this tournament: through four games, they are yet to score from open play, relying on two own goals and a penalty to advance. This offensive drought is undoubtedly a concern, yet for a team sculpted in the image of Didier Deschamps, grinding out results and progressing deep into major tournaments through defensive solidity is almost becoming their signature.
“We are an incredibly robust team, a compact and unwavering unit, and we deserve recognition for our distinctive style of play,” declared defender William Saliba to ESPN post-match. “Many underestimate the sheer difficulty of playing against us, the relentless pressure we exert on our adversaries. We are guided by an exceptional coach, possess a formidable squad, a rock-solid defense, and an exceptional team spirit.”
France’s minimalist, results-oriented approach can, at times, be perceived as lacking in excitement. However, as Deschamps himself often retorts when faced with such criticisms: “We are winning, and that is paramount. The day we cease to win, then we can revisit this discussion.” Deschamps’ philosophy is rooted in the belief that championships are forged upon solid defensive foundations. This principle underpinned his own successful playing career and now dictates his managerial strategy. His footballing education in 1990s Italy, a period synonymous with prioritizing defensive structure and tactical aggression, has profoundly shaped his DNA, a philosophy he has instilled in his teams throughout his 12-year tenure as France manager. And history suggests he has a point: victories validate his methods.
Even Belgium’s talismanic midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne, acknowledged the effectiveness of France’s approach. “You perhaps don’t fully appreciate just how formidable France are. We were acutely aware that any lapse in concentration in our defensive third would be ruthlessly punished. That was the level of apprehension we had facing them tonight,” De Bruyne admitted to French television.
France’s tactical rigidity often forces opponents to deviate from their natural game, breeding frustration and compelling them into uncomfortable strategies. This tactical weapon has served them well in the tournament thus far. Whether it will be sufficient to propel them to Euro 2024 glory, navigating a path potentially including heavyweights like Spain or Germany, remains to be seen. However, no team remaining in the competition can currently boast the same level of defensive coherence and collective discipline as this French side, a testament to Deschamps’ enduring influence.
As the final whistle blew, France’s central defensive pairing of William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano shared a powerful embrace before seeking out goalkeeper Mike Maignan for a celebratory group hug. This trio embodies the steely core of the French machine, effectively neutralizing the Belgian strike force of Romelu Lukaku and Loïs Openda. On the flanks, Jules Koundé successfully contained the threat of Jérémy Doku, contributing to France’s comprehensive control of the match tempo and their ability to shut down the game.
There is also an expectation that Kylian Mbappé, still adapting to playing with a protective mask following a broken nose, is gradually regaining his peak form. While not yet at his dazzling best, his performance against Belgium showed signs of improvement compared to the previous outing against Poland. His post-match camaraderie with Kolo Muani in the dressing room further highlighted the positive team spirit within the French camp.
Kolo Muani, the somewhat unexpected game-changer, seized his opportunity. Having played limited minutes earlier in the tournament, his injection of energy, tireless running, and determination proved crucial in the decisive moment.
This ability to involve and utilize the entire squad is another facet of Deschamps’ managerial acumen. His pragmatism and tactical versatility – evidenced by deploying four different formations in four games – ensures that players remain engaged and ready to contribute. Adrien Rabiot’s suspension for the quarterfinal will necessitate a reshuffle, with Youssouf Fofana or Eduardo Camavinga poised to step into the midfield. Similarly, Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola, who were rested against Belgium after starting the previous match, could be recalled for the upcoming quarterfinal.
Antoine Griezmann’s adaptability was also on display, accepting a role on the right wing against Belgium, a departure from his usual central position. “I told the coach: let’s go, let’s do it. I’m here for you, I’m here to help him,” Griezmann revealed to ESPN. “I’m not a winger, I am not going to go one vs one, but I can adapt and play anywhere to benefit the team.”
This collective mentality, instilled by Deschamps, underscores the team’s unity and willingness to adhere to his tactical directives. Despite not consistently exhibiting breathtaking attacking football at Euro 2024, France are in the quarterfinals, precisely where many anticipated they would be, a testament to their resilience and Deschamps’ unwavering approach.
