Italy Fight Back to Defeat France 3-1, Hand Zidane First Loss as Coach

Italy came from behind to secure an impressive 3-1 victory over France in Milan on Thursday, handing Zinedine Zidane his first defeat since taking charge of the French national team.

France, who were without injured attacking stars Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, took an early lead through Michael Olise in the 10th minute.

The forward capitalised on a misplaced pass from Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma before firing into the net.

Italy responded strongly, with Francesco Pio Esposito restoring parity after connecting with Nicolo Cambiaghi’s pass.

France subsequently came close to regaining the lead, but Bradley Barcola and Rayan Cherki both struck the woodwork.

Italy missed an opportunity to move ahead when Sebastiano Esposito sent a second-half penalty wide.

However, the hosts continued to press and eventually took the lead through Davide Frattesi, who finished Federico Dimarco’s cut-back with a powerful effort.

Francesco Pio Esposito later completed his brace from the penalty spot after French defender Dayot Upamecano fouled substitute Antonio Vergara in the penalty area.

The victory moved Italy above France to the top of Group A1 on head-to-head record, although both sides remain level on 10 points ahead of the final round of matches.

Belgium are also firmly in contention, sitting just one point behind the two European giants.

Belgium strengthened their position with a 2-1 victory over Turkey in Izmir.

Turkey initially took the lead through a brilliant free-kick from Arda Guler under new coach Sergen Yalcin.

However, Belgium responded with two quick goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Charles De Ketelaere to secure all three points.

Turkey’s defeat marked their fifth consecutive loss.

Belgium will host Italy on Sunday, while France welcome Turkey in their final group fixtures.

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