Nations League
Italy's comeback stuns Zidane's France at San Siro
Italy rallied from a first‑half deficit to defeat Zidane’s France 3‑1 at the San Siro in the UEFA Nations League, with the Azzurri moving top of Group A1. The match marked France’s first loss under Zinedine Zidane and gave Italy a crucial three points.
Les Bleus led when Italy keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma passed straight to Michael Olise, who beat two defenders before firing in. Roberto Mancini’s hosts were level with Pio Esposito’s clever near‑post finish from Nicolo Cambiaghi’s ball.
Second‑half drama turns the tide
Sebastiano Esposito missed a penalty for Italy before Davide Frattesi lashed in a second after Federico Dimarco’s pass. The Azzurri won another penalty, which Pio Esposito took and scored for his second goal. Pio Esposito has already netted four goals in this Nations League campaign.
Italy deprived of Zaniolo for its last two Nations League matches
The 21‑year‑old Inter Milan striker has scored nine goals in his first 14 caps. The game marked the first time Italy had beaten France in a home game since 1962. Former France captain and ex‑Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane replaced Didier Deschamps after the World Cup, leading them to three wins and a draw.
Italy are now top of Group A1, above France because of a better head‑to‑head record. The pair are on 10 points, one above Belgium – who came from behind to beat Turkey 2‑1 earlier. The top two will go into the quarter‑finals. Sunday’s final group games see Belgium host Italy and France at home to Turkey.