Manchester United defender Leny Yoro made a memorable senior debut for France as Les Bleus came from behind to beat Belgium yesterday.
Belgium looked on course for victory after taking the lead in the first half, but France produced a stunning late comeback by scoring four goals in the final 13 minutes.
Yoro was handed his opportunity after a late injury to Liverpool defender Jeremy Jacquet forced France to make a change to their squad.
The United starlet started alongside Maxence Lacroix at the heart of defence.
The 20-year-old had the most touches (98) and completed an impressive 93% of his passes throughout the contest.
His confidence on the ball was particularly evident, where he completed 18 passes in the final third.
The young centre-back was equally impressive without the ball, registering 11 defensive contributions, the joint-most among all players on the pitch.
Yoro also dominated his individual battles, remarkably winning all 11 of his duels during an impressive 90-minute display.
Belgium had several dangerous forwards capable of causing problems, but Yoro stood firm and was not dribbled past even once.
His performance also earned praise from French media outlet Foot Mercato, which awarded the United defender a 6/10 rating.
The publication wrote: “The former Lille player took advantage of the absence of Upamecano (suspended) and Jacquet (hamstring injury) to play tonight, having joined the French squad following Konaté’s withdrawal.
“And it’s safe to say he seized his opportunity. Strong in duels, the new French international was very incisive in his tackles and precise in his distribution. While not involved in Belgium’s opening goal, he delivered a more than solid performance.”
United head coach Michael Carrick will undoubtedly be delighted to see his young defender produce such a mature performance on the international stage.
Yoro has faced criticism during his time at Old Trafford, but it is easy to forget that he is still only 20 and naturally has plenty of room to develop.
Mistakes are inevitable at this stage of his career, but his immense talent has never been in doubt.
If he continues to develop at this rate, Yoro has all the attributes to become one of the finest centre-backs of his generation.
The Red Devils face Tottenham Hotspur this weekend, and it remains to be seen whether Carrick rewards Yoro with a starting berth.
Stats from Fotmob.com