Italy overcame an early setback to defeat France 3-1 at the Parc des Princes in Paris, kicking off their UEFA Nations League campaign in style. Despite conceding within 13 seconds to a quick strike from Bradley Barcola, the Azzurri rebounded with three goals from Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi, and Giacomo Raspadori, securing an impressive win over Didier Deschamps’ side. Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé was unable to make an impact for Les Bleus, as Italy dominated the match after their equalizer.
A Dream Start for France – but Italy Strike Back
The match couldn’t have started better for France, with Paris Saint-Germain’s young winger Bradley Barcola netting his first international goal just seconds after kickoff. Barcola pounced on a mistake by Giovanni Di Lorenzo, stealing the ball and storming into the box to give France an early lead in what seemed like a dream start for the home side.
Italy, however, nearly responded immediately when Davide Frattesi rattled the crossbar with a powerful header just five minutes later. The Italian pressure continued, and they eventually found their equalizer in the 30th minute with a beautifully executed volley by Federico Dimarco. After a slick one-touch combination with Sandro Tonali, Dimarco unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner, leveling the score and swinging the momentum in Italy’s favor.
Second-Half Dominance Seals the Comeback
Five minutes into the second half, Italy took the lead through Davide Frattesi, who made up for his earlier miss by slotting home a low cross from Mateo Retegui. Frattesi’s goal put Italy in control, with the French defense struggling to contain the fluidity and sharpness of Italy’s attacking moves.
As the match progressed, Italy continued to press, and in the 74th minute, Giacomo Raspadori added the third and final goal. After some fantastic work from substitute Destiny Udogie on the left wing, Raspadori received the ball in the box, burst past William Saliba, and calmly slotted the ball into the net to seal Italy’s stunning comeback.
Talking Point – A Tough Start for France
France, still reeling from their semi-final exit at Euro 2024 to Spain, couldn’t shake off their recent disappointments in front of their home fans. Despite a lightning-fast start, Italy’s equalizer deflated the French side, and they struggled to mount a serious comeback. Didier Deschamps’ side, though able to create chances, lacked the clinical edge, with their 12 shots yielding an expected goals (xG) tally of just 0.86, compared to Italy’s 1.71. It’s back to the drawing board for Deschamps as France prepares to face Belgium next in what will be another tough Nations League test.
Player of the Match – Mateo Retegui (Italy)
Although he didn’t find the back of the net himself, Mateo Retegui was a constant threat to the French defense throughout the game. The partnership of William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté struggled to contain Retegui’s dynamic runs and hold-up play. His efforts were rewarded with an assist, as his pinpoint cross set up Davide Frattesi’s goal early in the second half. Retegui’s ability to stretch the defense created opportunities for his teammates, making him the standout performer.
Match Ratings
France:
Maignan 5, Clauss 5, Konaté 5, Saliba 6, Hernandez 6, Kanté 5, Fofana 5, Griezmann 6, Olise 6, Barcola 8, Mbappé 7
Subs: Koundé 6, Koné 6, Zaire-Emery 6, Thuram N/A, Dembélé 6
Italy:
Donnarumma 6, Calafiori 7, Bastoni 7, Di Lorenzo 6, Dimarco 8, Tonali 8, Ricci 7, Frattesi 8, Cambiaso 7, Pellegrini 6, Retegui 8
Subs: Buongiorno N/A, Udogie 7, Brescianini N/A, Raspadori 8, Kean N/A
Match Highlights
1’ – GOAL! FRANCE 1-0 ITALY (BARCOLA): France strike in the first 13 seconds! Bradley Barcola capitalizes on a mistake by Giovanni Di Lorenzo, steals the ball, and races into the box before finishing expertly to give Les Bleus the perfect start.
6’ – OFF THE BAR! Davide Frattesi comes agonizingly close to equalizing for Italy with a header that rattles the crossbar after a well-placed ball from Lorenzo Pellegrini.
30’ – GOAL! FRANCE 1-1 ITALY (DIMARCO): Federico Dimarco levels the score with a stunning volley! After a slick one-two with Sandro Tonali, Dimarco unleashes a fierce shot from the edge of the box that flies into the far corner.
51’ – GOAL! FRANCE 1-2 ITALY (FRATTESI): Italy takes the lead! Mateo Retegui delivers a low cross into the box, and Davide Frattesi meets it with a perfectly placed shot past Mike Maignan.
74’ – GOAL! FRANCE 1-3 ITALY (RASPADORI): Italy extends their lead! Destiny Udogie weaves his way through the French defense before setting up Giacomo Raspadori, who beats Saliba and slots home to secure all three points for Italy.
Conclusion
Italy’s impressive 3-1 comeback victory over France in the Nations League showcased their resilience and attacking prowess. Despite an early setback, the Azzurri found their rhythm and thoroughly outplayed their hosts. For France, it’s another disappointing result, and Didier Deschamps will need to address the team’s defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge as they prepare for tougher challenges ahead.
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