Zidane praises Chelsea's Romeo Lavia as a 'quality player' after France's stunning comeback win over Belgium

From the Newshound archive · first published 7 October 2026.

Zinedine Zidane singled out Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia for special praise after France came from a goal down to thrash Belgium 4-1 in a Nations League clash in Paris on Tuesday. Lavia, 22, set up Dodi Lukebakio's opener for the visitors, leaving Belgium in front for nearly an hour before France ran riot with four goals in the final 13 minutes. Zidane said he rewatched Lavia's assist at half-time and was impressed, calling the Belgian 'a quality player' — high praise from one of the game's greatest midfielders.

France's fightback was sealed by Lucas Da Cunha, Michael Olise and a late brace from Desire Doue, keeping Les Bleus top of Nations League Group 1.

Lavia cost Chelsea £53m from Southampton in 2023 but managed just 29 Premier League appearances across his first three injury-plagued seasons at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea teammate Cole Palmer has already tipped Lavia to become one of the 'best midfielders in the world' despite his fitness struggles.