France Secure Nations League Quarterfinal Spot Amid Record Low Attendance
France has clinched a place in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals after a goalless draw against Israel on Thursday. The match, held at the usually vibrant Stade de France, was played in front of a record low crowd due to heightened security concerns.
Returning to their home ground for the first time since June 2023, Les Bleus struggled to impress without their star players. With captain Kylian Mbappé rested and Ousmane Dembélé sidelined by injury, France lacked their usual attacking flair. Randal Kolo Muani led the line but couldn’t capitalize on his chances, including a header saved by Israel’s goalkeeper Daniel Peretz in the 19th minute.
The game unfolded under heavy security, a consequence of recent unrest involving Israeli fans in Amsterdam. A staggering 4,000 security personnel were deployed, but the heightened measures contributed to a sparse attendance of just 16,611 spectators—the lowest ever for France at the Stade de France.
“I didn’t see the scuffles. We had to play this game in a context that we would like not to have. It’s obviously weird to play in front of such a small crowd,” France coach Didier Deschamps commented after the match.
Despite the lackluster performance, France remains second in Group A2 with 10 points, trailing Italy by three points. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as they face Italy in Milan on Sunday, with the top spot up for grabs.
Italy Edge Belgium to Tighten Grip on Group Lead
In Brussels, Italy secured a vital 1-0 victory over Belgium, thanks to an early goal from Sandro Tonali. The midfielder netted his first goal for the Azzurri in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Maxim De Cuyper.
Italy dominated the first half, and Tonali nearly doubled the lead before the break. Belgium fought back in the second half, testing Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, but couldn’t find an equalizer.
“It was tough, but they fought like lions,” Italy coach Luciano Spalletti said. “The lads did well because the pitch got really heavy in the second half.”
The win solidifies Italy’s position at the top of Group A2 with 13 points, ending Belgium’s hopes of reaching the quarterfinals. Italy will face France next, in a match that could decide the group winner.
Reference(s):
France reach UEFA Nations League last eight after 0-0 draw with Israel
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