Belgium defeated France 2–1 to reach the tournament final after a fast-paced, high-quality contest. The Belgian Red Devils were ruthlessly efficient in attack, scoring twice from their only two shots on target. Their disciplined and determined defensive performance proved decisive in securing the victory. It was an entertaining match that showcased some of the game’s brightest talents and delivered a fitting spectacle for the occasion.
Belgium, coached by Bob Browaeys, lined up in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation and maintained a double pivot in possession to cope with the opposition’s front-two press (see image below).
During the build-up phase, central midfielder Xander Dierckx dropped alongside the two centre-backs to form a back three. Meanwhile, right-footed left-back Sami El Morabet pushed higher up the pitch, while left winger Jayden Onia Seke moved into the half-space. This rotation provided width through the advancing full-back and facilitated interior occupation in possession (see image below).
They showed excellent organization when defending their penalty area, both on set pieces and in open play, making it difficult for France to find space and create clear chances (see image below).
France, under José Alcocer, operated in a 1-4-2-3-1 shape. Their right side was particularly fluid, with Mathis Chambon advancing aggressively from right-back and Joshua Dago moving into the half-space. These rotations created favourable crossing opportunities, allowing both players to deliver dangerous balls into the box. This was evident in France’s goal shortly after the 64th minute, when substitute Christ Batola scored with a powerful header from an excellent cross delivered by Chambon (see video below).
Here the players who stood out in this match:
Mattis Seghers (Belgium / RSC Anderlecht), goalkeeper born 2009.
Mattis is a left-footed goalkeeper with an imposing physical presence and excellent distribution skills. He consistently found teammates with accurate long passes, demonstrating strong vision and passing technique. When facing pressure, he used precise chipped deliveries to advanced full-backs to bypass the opposition’s press and showed confidence playing with his weaker foot when required.
Defensively, he commanded his penalty area well, particularly on defensive set pieces, where he dealt with aerial threats authoritatively. His standout moment came late in the match when he produced an explosive save with his opposite arm to deny a powerful long-range effort, preserving his team’s lead and helping secure the victory.
Elie Mbavu (Belgium / KRC Genk), centre-back born 2009.
Elie is a tall centre-back who excels in aerial duels and defensive challenges. He dominated the central areas when defending set pieces, consistently clearing crosses with strong, well-timed headers. His timing in tackles and interceptions was excellent, allowing him to regain possession and disrupt opposition attacks effectively.
He demonstrated strong positional awareness throughout the match, placing himself well to intercept crosses and forward passes before clearing the danger. In the closing stages, he made several crucial defensive interventions, maintaining his concentration and displaying impressive game intelligence to help his team see out the result.
Jayden Onia Seke (Belgium / RSC Anderlecht), right winger born 2009.
Jayden is a right-footed winger with excellent pace and strong 1v1 attacking ability. He scored the opening goal with a composed left-footed finish after a sharp change of direction that created the space needed to beat his defender. Agile and dynamic, he is difficult to predict when in possession, using quick movements and close control to unsettle opponents and create attacking opportunities. His ability to change direction at speed makes him a constant threat in wide areas.
Mathis Chambon (France / Montpellier HSC), right-back born 2009.
Mathis is an attack-minded full-back who was a constant threat for Belgium, regularly supporting forward play and delivering dangerous crosses. He provided an assist with an outstanding outswinging delivery from a wide position, highlighting his technical quality in crossing situations. He consistently took positive first touches to beat his direct opponents and progress the ball.
Defensively, he showed strong positioning to intercept switches of play and good timing in aerial duels despite his lack of height. He was quick to close down opponents and proved effective in 1v1 defensive situations, combining aggression with control in his duels.
