Mancini celebrates Italy's team performance after the draw against France

Roberto Mancini described Italy's performance against France in Paris as “a step forward in our adventure”, emphasizing that the Azzurri played like a real team despite the 1-1 result. The coach highlighted the ability to create chances and the solid defence, even when Gianluigi Donnarumma had to make decisive saves.

First half: the match context

The clash in Paris, played at the Stade de France, represented an answer to the question whether Italy was the same team that had lost 2-0 to Belgium or the one that had won 4-1 in Turkey. The draw result confirmed a more reassuring growth compared to the Belgian defeat.

Alessandro Bastoni scored the equaliser, nullifying the free‑kick deflected by Michael Olise. It was Bastoni’s second consecutive goal, his first after appearances in the World Cup playoffs in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mancini transforms Italy from depression to optimism with the youngsters

Second half: reactions and prospects

Mancini told RAI Sport that the team limited the opponent’s chances, despite France having more possession. He added that “playing as a team, attacking and defending together, was a very positive evening”.

Francesco Pio Esposito was greeted by the coach after the substitution, while Sandro Tonali also received Mancini’s compliments. French captain Zinedine Zidane, together with Mancini, pushed for victory until the final whistle, despite Dayot Upamecano’s dismissal that left France with ten men.

In Group A, France remains in first place with seven points, Belgium on six and Italy on four, keeping the qualification race alive. Mancini concluded on Sky Sport Italy, acknowledging Donnarumma’s role and the youngsters’ ability to build a great national team, while admitting there will be highs and lows along the way.