Italy Stuns France in Nations League Opener
Paris, France – In a thrilling opening match of the UEFA Nations League, Italy staged a remarkable comeback to defeat defending champions France 3-1 at the Parc des Princes.
The match began with a shock as France took the lead within 12 seconds. A defensive lapse by Italy allowed Bradley Barcola to pounce and slot the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma. However, Italy quickly regrouped and dominated much of the first half.
Italy should have leveled just five minutes later but Davide Frattesi could only rattle the crossbar with a yawning goal before Mateo Retegui flicked the rebound over the top.
However, the Azzurri got back on track with a wonderful goal on the half-hour mark. Sandro Tonali played a sumptuous flick over the top of the French back line and Federico Dimarco fired a brilliant left-footed volley past Mike Maignan and into the far corner.
Barcola saw an effort deflected just wide of Donnrumma’s goal before half-time, but a third goal went Italy’s way five minutes into the second half. Youssouf Fofana lost possession cheaply and Luciano Spalletti’s men made France pay, Retegui crossing low for Frattesi to slot home at the far post.
Despite enjoying plenty of possession, France increased their advantage in the 14th minute through Giacomo Raspadori when Destiny Ugodie headed home.
Antoine Griezmann almost set up a stand-up finish when he curled just wide of the left-hand post, but that was as close as France would come in the dying stages, with the full-time whistle prompting cheers from the home fans.
Italy face Israel in their second match in Group A2 on Monday, while Didier Deschamps’ Bleus are under pressure as they host Belgium on the same day.
