France host Belgium tonight knowing they cannot afford back-to-back defeats on home soil.
Didier Deschamps’ men were humbled in the French capital on Friday night when Italy picked up a shock 3-1 victory to kick off their Nations League campaign in style.
Belgium, meanwhile, picked up three points courtesy of the same scoreline against Israel and will head to Lyon full of confidence.
Read on for our full preview of the crunch clash before taking a look at a football bet and some key odds.
As you would expect from the Bet777 team, we have thrown in some tips for good measure as further proof — should you need it — that your sports betting needs are covered 24/7.
France vs Belgium
Monday, September 9, 7.45pm
Groupama Stadium, Lyon
France vs Belgium Preview
Despite taking the lead against Italy through Bradley Barcola after just a minute, France had a night to forget at the Parc des Princes in Paris.
Federico Dimarco levelled matters on the half-hour mark and Davide Frattesi put the visitors in front six minutes after the break. Giacomo Raspadori killed off any hopes of a comeback when he hammered the final nail in the home side’s coffin in the 74th minute.
A disappointed but defiant Deschamps, 55, said: “I am accustomed to criticism, even if I won more than lost in my career. I knew our fitness levels were not at the best but it is a young squad.
“I have always been clear-eyed on what we were doing. Unfortunately, in terms of intensity and physicality, Italy did more than us.
“It irritates me that our first 20 minutes were so good and then the light went out.”
Belgium had the inspirational Kevin De Bruyne to thank for their victory.
The Manchester City playmaker, 33, opened the scoring after 21 minutes but Timothy Castagne’s own goal pulled Israel level.
Youri Tielemans restored the advantage after the break and De Bruyne stepped up to stroke home a penalty after 52 minutes to wrap up the points.
While De Bruyne was delighted with the result, he was quick to hit out at the number of games he and his team-mates are expected to play.
He said: “The issue is that UEFA and FIFA keep adding extra matches. We raise concerns but no solutions have been found.
“It seems that money speaks louder than the players’ voices.”
While his star man may be less than happy, boss Domenico Tedesco will hope De Bruyne is in the mood to lead the Red Devils to another important victory this evening.
Latest Nations League Betting Odds
*All odds subject to change
Despite losing their opening Nations League game, France are 1.84 to pick up a win. Form, however, would suggest that Belgium (4.20) will be a more tempting bet to leave with the points.
France vs Belgium Betting Tips
Looking at the first goalscorer market, Marcus Thuram is a tasty 7.40 to break the deadlock. But after his double against Israel, the smart money may be on De Bruyne at 12.00.
Bet Builder Quick Bets: France to win, over 2.5 goals and Kylian Mbappe to score anytime – 3.60
France fans would love to see Kylian Mbappe get on the scoresheet tonight and an impressive performance from his star man would certainly ease the pressure on Deschamps. Nothing less than a victory will be acceptable for Les Bleus and there is value to be found in our bet builder selection.
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