Zidane denied home win as France draw 1-1 with Italy

Italy thwarted Zinedine Zidane's flawless start as manager of France, securing a 1-1 draw in their UEFA Nations League match at the Stade de France. Michael Olise gave France the lead with a brilliant free-kick, but Alessandro Bastoni equalized for Italy following a defensive lapse. Despite this, Zidane's side remained atop Group A1 with seven points, one ahead of Belgium, while Italy had four points.

France dominated early play but failed to convert their chances. Italy's first real chance came from Moise Kean, who shot straight at France's goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. Olise then came close for France, with his deflected cross hitting the crossbar. Italy threatened again before halftime when Davide Frattesi's shot hit a French player and went out for a corner.

France intensified their pressure after the break, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making two crucial saves to block efforts from Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé. The Italian captain then denied Olise's curling effort before France scored in the 55th minute. Rayan Cherki's free-kick delivered the ball to Olise, who curled it past the wall and into the net, leaving Donnarumma with no chance.

Zidane's side finished with 10 men after Dayot Upamecano's second yellow card in the 85th minute. Italy couldn't capitalize on their numerical advantage, and the match ended 1-1. This fixture held personal significance for Zidane, who previously faced Italy in the 2006 World Cup final, where Italy won on penalties after a 1-1 draw, and Zidane was sent off in extra time.

France will finish the group stage top, while Italy will sit fourth with four points. In the other group match on Friday, Belgium defeated Turkey 3-0, with Kevin De Bruyne scoring twice and Romelu Lukaku adding a third.