Euro 2024: we rewatched the France – Belgium of 2018 and there was nothing to be excited about for the Belgians

In 2018, Belgians and French faced each other at the 2018 World Cup. Sven Simon – Elmar Kremser/SVEN SIMON

The semi-final of the Russian World Cup, between France and Belgium (1-0), was the cause of a “seum”, of Belgian disgust, that the rewatching of the meeting sweeps away.

How a myth is created? The question, worthy of examination, applies perfectly to the 2018 World Cup meeting between France and Belgium (1- 0). In any case, this is what the rewatching of this semi-final provokes, six years after this “seum” duel.

If the opposition was indeed tight on the pitch in Saint Petersburg, this July 10, 2018, there was nothing to suggest an ultradomination of the Red Devils. If it’s not sterile.

Sterile Belgian possession versus French opportunities

The figures are clear: Hazard, then playing master of Chelsea, and his partners displayed superior ball possession (64%) and made almost double the number of passes (594 against 346). Enough to get frustrated. However, the occasions were rather tricolor. Beyond the shots (19 French attempts to 9), the famous “expected goals” or expected goals are largely favorable to Didier Deschamps' men (1.91 xG against 0.38).

The field is also moving in this direction. “DD” had prepared his shot well, leaving the initiative to the Belgians, while opposing a 4-3-3 block to the loss of the ball. As such, the first curtain formed by Griezmann, Mbappé and Giroud proved essential. As much as the second, built by a Matuidi and a Pogba impressive in volume and duel, but also an eye-catching Kanté. Enough to isolate De Bruyne. While Lukaku was trapped between Varane and Umtiti.

No red waves

In fact, until the goal on a corner from “Big Sam” and its celebration “breaks the gait” (51st), the two teams had an opportunity each: a pivotal shot from Alderweireld for a save from Lloris (22nd) and a save from Courtois in front of Pavard (39th).

And after the opening score ? No red wave on the horizon. But two hot moments: a header from Fellaini on the side (65th) and a beautiful strike from 25m from Witsel released by Lloris (81st). Not really the apnea described by some.

In front of Mick Jagger, the Blues could even have not been friendly with the Devils and doubled the bet through Giroud (56th) or Tolisso (90th+ 6) without a decisive Courtois. We know the end of the story. That even rewriting won't change.