Ever since WW2, France has never defeated Belgium 3 wins in a row (within 90mins play).
Tonight's game will be the 5th time both nations meet in a major tournament, with France winning all 4 previous encounters (one of which settled in extra time ie WC'86).
Similarly, Belgium played in 4 successive R16 matches from 2014-2020, with Belgium winning all their past 4 R16 encounters (one of which settled in extra time ie vs USA in WC2014). Tonight's game shall mark the ending chapter of Belgium's golden generation.
I forsee French defence will have little problem guarding Lukaku. Likewise, Mbappe will also have limited vision & aerial ability with his mask on & nose still healing. Expect a low scoring game tonight. France will eventually triumph due to deeper squad that can break an energy-depleted Belgian defence late in the game.
Prediction:
France to draw Belgium in full time
France 0-0 1-1 Belgium
France to win Belgium in extra-time
Total goals: UNDER 2.5
France to qualify