Olise stunner not enough for France as Italy spoil Zidane’s emotional Stade de France homecoming

Saint-Denis, October 3 — Michael Olise scored a remarkable goal, but France suffered a 1-1 draw against Italy in Zinedine Zidane’s first home game since becoming the coach of Les Bleus. Four days after an incredible solo effort against Belgium, Olise demonstrated his exceptional skills once again by heading a free-kick off the crossbar in the second half.

However, Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni equalised for Italy to prevent Zidane from achieving three consecutive victories. France leads the Uefa Nations League Group A1 with seven points, while Belgium trails close behind with six points after a 3-0 victory over Turkey. France and Belgium are set to face each other in their final match of this two-week international window.

Italy, with four points, will host Turkey next. Zidane, the former Real Madrid playmaker and Ballon d’Or winner, made a rare appearance at his former national stadium for the first time since 2006, marking his first match at the Stade de France as a coach. "It was magnificent," he said. "We would have liked to win for our fans tonight, but I was deeply moved and delighted to be back at the Stade de France."

Zidane aims to make his mark on the France team in the Nations League campaign, with Euro 2028 on the horizon. He was absent without Kylian Mbappe, who returned to his club following a knee injury that occurred during the Turkey match. Italy, under Roberto Mancini, are rebuilding and will be pleased with the draw, despite goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma’s impressive performances, including a series of saves in the second half.