Italy's comeback forces França into second place in Nations League
Italy overturned França 3‑1 at the San Siro in Milan on Thursday 12, a Nations League (Liga) match that lifted the Azzurra to the top of their group. This encounter formed part of the UEFA Nations League competition significant.
Early French lead and Italian comeback
Bleus, coached by Zinédine Zidane, opened the scoring after ten minutes when Michael Olise capitalised on a mistake by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. França, missing several key players, threatened to double the lead shortly after as Bradley Barcola’s shot struck the post, the Liverpool striker hitting the woodwork a second time in the first half. The report highlighted Francesco Pio Esposito – Brasil, underscoring his impact on the match.
At the 25‑minute mark Italy, now more organised, saw Nicolò Cambiaghi link up with Francesco Pio Esposito, whose run down the right flank produced a precise cross for the Inter forward, whose effort was saved by Mike Maignan, restoring parity. In the second half, after França again rattled the Italian post for the third time, Cambiaghi’s solo effort forced left‑back Malo Gusto into a penalty, which Sebastiano Esposito failed to convert. Less than five minutes later, Nicolò Barella found substitute Federico Dimarco, whose pinpoint cross met Davide Frattesi, whose powerful finish gave the hosts the lead. Roberto Mancini’s side then earned a second penalty when Dayot Upamecano arrived late and brought down Antonio Vergara, and Francesco Pio Esposito – brother of Sebastiano – calmly placed the ball into the left corner to seal the win.
Group implications and upcoming fixtures
The San Siro victory meant Italy topped Grupo 1 of Liga A, matching França on ten points but leading on goal difference. In the other fixture, Belgium beat Turkey 2‑1 yet slipped to third place with nine points, while Turkey remain winless and are mathematically relegated. Italy will conclude the group stage on Sunday 15 against Belgium in Brussels, while França host Turkey in Bordeaux on the same day.