Zinedine Zidane's first home game as France coach ended in a 1-1 draw against Italy on Friday, despite a spectacular goal from Michael Olise. The Bayern Munich star scored with a free-kick in the second half, but Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni equalized for Italy to prevent Zidane from making it three wins out of three in charge of his country. The match was played before a packed crowd of 77,118 at the Stade de France just outside Paris.
Zidane's home debut was highly anticipated, as it marked his first appearance at France's national stadium since he played in a friendly against Mexico in May 2006. The 54-year-old icon and former Ballon d'Or winner was the focus of attention, especially given the opponent was the same as in his final game as a player. Zidane was sent off for an infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final in Berlin, which Italy won on penalties.
Michael Olise had previously scored a stunning solo effort to give France a 1-0 win in Belgium four days prior to the Italy match. On Friday, he showcased his talent again by smashing a shot in off the crossbar from a free-kick early in the second half. However, Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, including stops from Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, and Olise.
Italy's rebuilding process under coach Roberto Mancini continued, with the team seeking to qualify for the next major tournament after failing to qualify for the last three World Cups. Mancini was pleased with the draw, highlighting the positive aspects of the team's performance against one of the best teams in the world. He emphasized the need for his team to keep playing in the same manner.
France lead UEFA Nations League Group A1 with seven points, while Belgium have six points after a 3-0 win over Turkey. The two teams will meet on Monday in their last match of this two-week long international window. Italy have four points and will host Turkey next. Zidane expressed pride in his players' performance, despite being without captain Kylian Mbappe due to a knee injury.
Zidane made six changes to the starting lineup from the Belgium game, including the introduction of Jeremy Jacquet and Lucas Da Cunha. Italy's Moise Kean had a goal disallowed for offside, while Davide Frattesi and Kean also came close to scoring in the first half. Donnarumma's saves were crucial in securing the draw for Italy.
The match ended with late drama, as France defender Dayot Upamecano was sent off with a second yellow card on 85 minutes. Zidane reflected on the performance, stating that he was happy with the team's display but not the result. He emphasized the need for his team to score a second goal and praised his players for their effort.
Key points
- Zinedine Zidane's first home game as France coach ended in a 1-1 draw against Italy.
- Michael Olise scored a spectacular goal for France, but Italy equalized through Alessandro Bastoni.
- France lead UEFA Nations League Group A1 with seven points, ahead of Belgium on six points.
