Belgium and France are gearing up for a crucial UEFA Nations League match, with both teams aiming to strengthen their positions in the group. Belgium comes into this game after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Italy.

Domenico Tedesco’s team fought back from being 2-0 down, courtesy of Maxim de Cuyper and Leandro Trossard’s goals. 

France, on the other hand, comes into this game brimming with confidence. Didier Deschamps’ men delivered a commanding 4-1 win over Israel.

Talking about the recent head-to-head encounters between the two sides, Les Bleus have had the upper hand, including a 2-0 win in their last meeting and victories in both the 2021 Nations League semi-final and the 2018 World Cup.

With another win, France could solidify their spot in the top two, making this a crucial match for both teams.

MORE: FIFA match calendar, key dates for World Cup qualifiers, Nations League in 2024/25

The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.

Belgium vs. France live stream, TV channel

Here’s how to watch this UEFA Nations League match in UK:

TV channel: 
Live stream: Viaplay YouTube channel

Fans can enjoy this game for free on pay-tv platform Viaplay’s official YouTube channel.

If this match is not available to watch live in your location or if you’re traveling abroad, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs offer a secure and private online connection, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions to access your favourite streaming services from any device anywhere in the world.

WATCH FROM ANYWHERE: Sign up for NordVPN (30-day moneyback guarantee)

What time does Belgium vs. France kick off?

This UEFA Nations League clash between France and Belgium will take place at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, Belgium, on October 14 at 8:45 p.m. local time. 

Here’s how that time translates to UK:

Belgium vs. France lineups, team news

Belgium will be missing a few key players due to injuries, with goalkeeper Matz Sels sidelined after picking up a knock, and Kevin De Bruyne unavailable due to a groin injury.

Despite the absence of these key players, Belgium will lean on the attacking duo of Leandro Trossard and Lois Openda to pose a serious threat to the French defense.

Belgium predicted XI (5-2-3), right to left): Casteels — Castagne, Debast, Faes, Theate,De Cuyper — Tielemans, Mangala — Trossard, Openda, Doku

Injured:  Matz Sels, Kevin de Bruyne
Suspended: —

For France, their two key players are missing from the squad. Kylian Mbappé has withdrawn due to injury, and Antoine Griezmann has announced his retirement from international football. Griezmann’s decision came after France’s 3-1 loss to Italy last month. 

Barcola is likely to play the attacking role in Mbappe’s absence. 

France predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Maignan — Kounde, Konate, Saliba, T Hernandez — Tchouameni, Camavinga, Guendouzi; Olise, Kolo Muani, Barcola.

Injured: Kylian Mbappe
Suspended: —

Belgium vs. France prediction 

Belgium will feel confident at home, but given the inexperience the current Belgium side holds with the absence of Thibaut Courtois, De Bryune, and Romelu Lukaku, France is favored to win this match. 

• Prediction: Belgium 1-2 France