Photo by MARCEL VAN DORST/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by MARCEL VAN DORST/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Chelsea’s Maxence Lacroix and Liverpool’s Jeremy Jacquet helped France beat Belgium 1-0 in the UEFA Nations League on Monday.
Michael Olise was the match-winner for Zinedine Zidane’s side, but Lacroix, Jacquet and the rest of France’s backline also deserve credit for the victory after keeping a clean sheet. Lacroix’s Chelsea teammate Romeo Lavia featured as well after being named in Belgium’s starting XI.
Lavia was forced off in the 85th minute, but Chelsea fans have nothing to worry about, with the midfielder only being substituted because of cramp. Lavia was having a good game before his withdrawal, while Lacroix and Jacquet also impressed on the night.
According to Sofascore, Lacroix made 11 defensive actions at the King Baudouin Stadium, which was more than any other player on the pitch. In total, the 26-year-old made five clearances, two successful tackles and two interceptions.
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Lacroix also blocked two shots and was not dribbled past once. It was a really solid display by the former Crystal Palace man.
Lavia was next on the list for most defensive actions made on the night, while Jacquet finished below both the Belgian and Lacroix. Ultimately, Lacroix was the best defender on the pitch, outshining Jacquet and the rest of France’s backline.
Understandably, the French media were impressed with Lacroix, who will be hoping to replicate his form with his national team at Chelsea after the international break. Lacroix started the season strongly but had a little dip before linking up with his France teammates.
Chelsea in general have had a dip after dropping points in their last two Premier League games. They were horrendous in their 3-0 loss to Brentford and would have been disappointed after drawing 2-2 with Hull City at home.
Lacroix and the rest of Chelsea’s backline need to improve when they welcome Bournemouth to Stamford Bridge next Saturday.
Photo by Franco Arland - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Photo by Franco Arland - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
A split of four graphic titled: "Has Chelsea's change in transfer approached worked?!" Image shows Emi Martinez, Danny Welbeck, Jordan Henderson and Maxence Lacroix playing for Chelsea.
A split of four graphic titled: "Has Chelsea's change in transfer approached worked?!" Image shows Emi Martinez, Danny Welbeck, Jordan Henderson and Maxence Lacroix playing for Chelsea.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images