Italian players huddle together in celebration after scoring a crucial goal in their 3-1 comeback victory against France during the UEFA Nations League match.
Paris, France – In a dramatic UEFA Nations League clash at the Parc des Princes, Italy overturned an early setback to defeat France 3-1, sending a clear message about their resilience and potential under coach Luciano Spalletti. Still smarting from their disappointing Euro 2024 exit, the Italians found redemption on the road, silencing a packed stadium with a performance of grit and class.
The match started with a bang as France’s Bradley Barcola made history, netting the fastest-ever goal for his country just 13 seconds after kickoff. The Paris Saint-Germain winger capitalized on a defensive error by Italy’s Giovanni Di Lorenzo, igniting the home crowd and setting the stage for what seemed destined to be a French domination.
However, Italy had other plans. After a brief adjustment period, they leveled the score at the half-hour mark through a moment of brilliance. Federico Dimarco connected perfectly with Sandro Tonali’s first-time pass, volleying the ball into the far corner to equalize. This goal settled Italy and shifted the momentum in their favor.
Italy took control early in the second half when Davide Frattesi turned in a Mateo Retegui cross to put them ahead. The Italians, displaying a newfound determination, continued to press forward, and substitute Giacomo Raspadori sealed the victory with a third goal in the 74th minute, ensuring a memorable comeback.
France struggled to regain their footing despite their explosive start. Kylian Mbappé, wearing the captain’s armband, was effectively neutralized by the Italian defense, while coach Didier Deschamps’ gamble on debutant Michael Olise failed to pay off. The London-born Bayern Munich winger showed flashes of brilliance but was ultimately overshadowed by the clinical Italian attack.
This defeat leaves France searching for answers as they continue to falter following their underwhelming performance at Euro 2024, where they reached the semifinals without ever truly convincing. Visibly frustrated, Deschamps acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “It hurts all of us. We must find our rhythm and consistency again.”
Meanwhile, Italy’s victory significantly boosts Spalletti’s side, who now sit atop Group A2 alongside Belgium. Due to security concerns, the Belgians secured a 3-1 win over Israel in a match played in Hungary, with Kevin De Bruyne leading the charge.
Looking ahead, Italy will face Israel in Budapest on Monday, while France will clash with Belgium in Lyon. Both teams hope to rediscover their form and bounce back from this stinging defeat.
Haaland Held as Norway Draws with Kazakhstan
In the UEFA Nations League, Erling Haaland, the prolific Norwegian striker, was held scoreless in a 0-0 draw against Kazakhstan. Despite his blistering start to the Premier League season with Manchester City, Erling Haaland couldn’t find the back of the net against the world’s 109th-ranked team. The result is a setback for Norway, which was hoping to secure a crucial win in Group B3.
Benjamin Sesko’s penalty in the same group ensured Slovenia secured a 1-1 draw with Austria, keeping the group wide open as the competition heats up.
Wales Held by Turkey in Cardiff
New Wales coach Craig Bellamy’s tenure in Cardiff began with a 0-0 draw against Turkey in League B’s Group 4. Despite creating several chances, Wales couldn’t break the deadlock and will now prepare for their upcoming trip to Montenegro.
