France — efficient as ever
France under their new head coach are going about their Nations League business quietly, without big statements, but with a perfect six points from two matches. In Matchday 1 they beat Turkey 1:0 in Paris. In Matchday 2 they won 1:0 away in Brussels. Both victories narrow, both deserved.
The match against Belgium was competitive — France had 52% possession and Belgium created several dangerous chances. But France, as is their way, found the decisive goal at the key moment. In the 88th minute Michael Olise — the Bayern Munich winger and one of the standout performers of last season's Bundesliga — struck precisely at the far post. 1:0, and the game was over.
France's sixth consecutive win over Belgium
France extended their dominance over Belgium — a sixth straight win in direct meetings. Belgium, who for years were ranked number one in the world, are going through a generational transition and have had a difficult few years. De Bruyne, Lukaku and Hazard have retired or are at the end of their careers — the new generation is still finding its voice.
Turkey — on the brink of relegation
Turkey are bottom of Group A1 after two games with zero points and a 1:5 goal difference. Defeats to France (0:1) and Italy (1:4) represent a catastrophic start. Turkey are in serious danger of relegation to League B — the coming matches will be decisive for their future in League A.