Transformed Italy records dominant win in Nations League, Olise gives France late win

Transformed Italy secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Turkey in the Nations League on Monday, marking their best performance in a long time. Under Roberto Mancini's leadership, the Azzurri showcased their prowess, contrasting their recent 2-0 loss to Belgium at home. This win came on the heels of Italy’s failure to qualify for a World Cup for the third consecutive time six months prior.

Turkey nearly equalized in the second half, but Davide Frattesi sealed the win with a goal in the 22nd minute, following a well-coordinated team move. Michael Kayode then doubled Italy’s lead with a goal in the fifth minute of the second half, capitalizing on a well-executed team play. Kayode added a third goal five minutes later, heading in a rebound after Pio Esposito’s shot hit the post.

Despite France's strong dominance and hitting the crossbar twice, they were unable to secure a win against Belgium. With Zinedine Zidane as the new coach, France fielded a team made up of nine changes, including debuts for Jérémy Jacquet, Andy Diouf, and Lucas Da Cunha. The injury to Kylian Mbappé, who scored his 67th goal for France, proved costly as Zidane made tactical adjustments, including bringing on his younger brother Sebastiano, marking the first time since 1915 that two brothers started a match for Italy.