Jan Vertonghen's own goal in the 85th minute proved to be the decisive moment for Belgium, who were eliminated from Euro 2024 following a 1-0 loss to France in Dusseldorf.
France, who have yet to score from open play, have had difficulties finding the back of the net, exiting the group stage with the lowest number of goals scored in the opening round since the 2010 World Cup.
Despite missing several opportunities, including chances for Kylian Mbappe, Didier Deschamps' team secured their spot in the next round when Randal Kolo Muani's shot deflected off the Belgian defender, giving Les Bleus a late lead.
Belgium were unable to create any significant chances in the closing moments of the game, while France will be aiming to enhance their attacking display in the upcoming match against the winner of Portugal and Slovenia in Hamburg on Friday.
France started brightly, but faced strong defense from Belgium. Mbappe's early opportunity from a short corner went astray, sailing over the crossbar around the 15-minute mark.
Although France had more attempts and applied pressure, they failed to convert any into goals.
Marcus Thuram missed a header wide, while Antoine Griezmann continued to impress in the match.
Kevin De Bruyne came closest to scoring for Belgium in the 24th minute with a dangerous free-kick that forced a save from Mike Maignan.
Belgium grew into the game, with Yannick Carrasco having a shot blocked. Thuram missed another chance from Jules Kounde's cross, and Aurelien Tchouameni's effort went just over the bar towards the end of the first half.
Thuram went close with a header in the second half, while Mbappe came close with a fine run that ended in another near-miss as France piled on the pressure without finding the net, including another effort from Mbappe as the game approached the final 10 minutes.
Romelu Lukaku missed a chance to put Belgium ahead just before France scored, and De Bruyne's 83rd-minute attempt was thwarted by the French goalkeeper.
Two minutes later, France capitalized on a mistake by Lukaku near his own penalty area, taking the lead and denying Belgium the chance to push the game to extra time. Kolo Muani's fortunate strike, deflected off Vertonghen's leg, secured the victory for France.