France vs Italy Nations League match ends in dramatic draw
Zidane's home debut sees France dominate possession but Italy create better chances before Saliba red card.
KEY POINTS
- France vs Italy ended 1-1 in Nations League Group 2 match at Stade de France
- Michael Olise scored a spectacular free-kick for France
- William Saliba sent off in 85th minute for second bookable offence
- Gianluigi Donnarumma made crucial double save to deny Doué and Dembélé
- Match marked Zinédine Zidane's first home fixture as France manager
France hosted Italy at the Stade de France on Friday for the third Nations League matchday, marking Zinédine Zidane's first home game as Les Bleus manager. The hosts controlled 65% of possession in the first half but struggled to test goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while Italy created the clearer opportunities through Moise Kean and Davide Frattesi.
The second half saw France increase their intensity. Michael Olise struck a stunning free-kick into the top corner to break the deadlock, sparking wild celebrations from Zidane on the touchline. Donnarumma kept Italy alive with a remarkable double save, denying Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé in quick succession.
“A genius clears the way for Les Bleus.”
The match turned in the 85th minute when William Saliba received a second yellow card for a foul on Kean, reducing France to ten men. Zidane immediately brought on defender Maxence Lacroix for Lucas Da Cunha. Italy pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Nicolò Barella forcing a save from Mike Maignan, but France held on for a 1-1 draw.
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