France 1–1 Italy: Zidane's Homecoming Ends in a Nations League Draw
Zinedine Zidane's first home match as France coach ended without a winner as France drew 1–1 with Italy at the Stade de France in a dramatic UEFA Nations League encounter.
France and Italy shared the points in Paris on Friday night, with Michael Olise putting the hosts ahead before Alessandro Bastoni equalised for Italy in the second half.
The match was particularly significant for Zinedine Zidane, who returned to the Stade de France as France's head coach. The former France captain had not appeared at the stadium in this role since taking charge of the national team.
The occasion carried additional historical weight because Italy were the opponents in Zidane's final match as a player, the 2006 World Cup final in Berlin.
Olise Delivers Another Moment of Quality
After a goalless first half, France increased the pressure following the break. Michael Olise once again provided the decisive attacking moment for Les Bleus.
In the 55th minute, Rayan Cherki rolled a free-kick toward Olise, who struck a powerful effort that went in off the underside of the crossbar. It was another spectacular goal from the Bayern Munich winger after he had scored a brilliant solo effort against Belgium four days earlier.
The goal appeared to give France control of the match, but Italy responded quickly and continued to threaten whenever France lost possession.
Bastoni Brings Italy Back
Italy's equaliser arrived in the 68th minute. Alessandro Bastoni capitalized after France lost possession near its own penalty area and finished the move to make it 1–1.
The goal changed the rhythm of the match. France continued to create opportunities, but Italy's defence remained difficult to break down.
Gianluigi Donnarumma played a major role in keeping Italy level. The Italian goalkeeper produced several important saves, including efforts involving Olise, Adrien Rabiot and Eduardo Camavinga.
France Reduced to Ten
The final stages became even more complicated for the home team when Dayot Upamecano received a second yellow card in the 85th minute and was sent off.
France therefore had to finish the match with ten players, reducing its ability to maintain pressure while also forcing the team to protect the draw.
Italy attempted to take advantage of the numerical superiority, but France held on and secured a point.
France Remains Top of the Group
Despite dropping two points at home, France remains at the top of UEFA Nations League Group A1 with seven points. Belgium is close behind after defeating Türkiye 3–0, while Italy has four points.
France will now face Belgium on Monday in its final match of the current international window. Italy, meanwhile, will host Türkiye.
For Zidane, the draw ends a perfect start after victories over Türkiye and Belgium. It also provides a more demanding test of the new coach's approach as France continues its Nations League campaign.
The result leaves plenty to discuss: Olise's outstanding form, Donnarumma's saves, Italy's ability to recover from conceding and France's late numerical disadvantage all shaped a match that remained competitive until the final whistle.