Nations League: France held by Italy in Zidane's homecoming after Olise stunner

Zinédine Zidane’s first match back at the Stade de France as France’s head coach ended in a 1‑1 draw with Italy in the UEFA Nations League, halting his streak of three consecutive victories. Bayern Munich forward Olise, who had earlier secured a 1‑0 win in Belgium with a solo effort, struck from a free‑kick early in the second half, sending the ball against the cross‑bar before finding the net on the rebound to give Les Bleus the lead. Italy responded through Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, who capitalised on a turnover by Lucas Da Cunha midway through the half to level the score, while France later saw defender Dayot Upamecano receive a second yellow and be sent off in the 85th minute. The match, attended by 77,118 spectators, left France atop Group A1 with seven points, ahead of Belgium’s six after their 3‑0 win over Turkey, with a final group fixture against Belgium looming on Monday.

The draw underscored the challenges Zidane faces in reshaping a French side missing captain Kylian Mbappé, who returned to club duties after a knee injury sustained in Turkey, and highlighted Italy’s gradual resurgence under Roberto Mancini’s second spell as coach after years of World Cup absences. France’s performance featured several new faces, including Liverpool defender Jeremy Jacquet and Como midfielder Lucas Da Cunha, while Olise’s return to the starting eleven marked one of six changes from the previous Belgium game. Italy, still rebuilding, displayed defensive solidity with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making multiple saves, and Mancini praised his side’s “very positive aspects,” noting the team’s progress despite the missed opportunity to secure a win against a world‑class opponent.

The result leaves both teams with distinct paths forward: France must regroup without Mbappé and after the red card to maintain its lead, while Italy, now on four points, will host Turkey next, aiming to continue its upward trajectory. Zidane expressed satisfaction with the team’s effort but disappointment with the outcome, emphasizing the need to convert chances into goals as France eyes Euro 2028. Meanwhile, Italy’s confidence grew from the equaliser and defensive resilience, with Mancini affirming that the squad is “on the right road” and must sustain its current style of play. The upcoming France‑Belgium clash will be decisive for the group leader, and the Nations League standings will shape the momentum heading into the next international window.

⚡ Effects Interpreter