Match Preview: France vs Italy - Analysis & Insights

Match Preview: France vs Italy - Analysis & Insights

In what to/ a heavyweight European showdown, France will host Italy in Paris as both teams kick off their Nations League campaigns. France, coming off a somewhat disappointing European Championship, where they were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual winners Spain, will be looking to regain their form.

Despite only managing one victory in their three Group D matches during the tournament, Didier Deschamps has retained his position as head coach and will be keen to see his team improve. France's recent form has been lackluster, with only two goals from open play during EURO 2024 and just one goal in each of their last seven appearances across all competitions.

Italy, on the other hand, entered EURO 2024 with hopes of being dark horse contenders but were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Switzerland. The Azzurri have struggled to find consistency, failing to secure consecutive competitive wins over the past year. Luciano Spalletti’s side will face a stern test in Paris, especially considering their poor recent record against France.

France vs Italy Head to Head

The last meeting between these two European giants took place in June 2018, with France securing a 3-1 victory in Paris. France has dominated their recent encounters with Italy, winning all three of their previous meetings by an aggregate score of 8-3. Italy’s last three matches against France have ended in defeat, a trend they will hope to reverse on Friday night.

France vs Italy Top Scorers

France
Kylian Mbappe, who opened his La Liga account with a brace against Real Betis last weekend, will lead the French attack as he earns his 85th international cap.

Italy
Sandro Tonali, returning from a 10-month ban, will be a key figure for Italy, although the team will be without Federico Chiesa, who misses out due to injury.

France vs Italy Team News

France will be without Ferland Mendy, who recently suffered a shin injury. In his place, Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne has been called up for defensive cover. New Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe will lead the line for Les Bleus, while Michael Olise, after his summer move to Bayern Munich, is also included in the squad.

Italy has seen a few changes as well. Sandro Tonali makes his return to the squad after his ban, while Caleb Okoli of Leicester City has received his first senior call-up and could make his international debut. The absence of Federico Chiesa is a blow for the Azzurri, and Moise Kean may be given the opportunity to spearhead the attack.

France vs Italy Predicted Line-ups

France:
Maignan, Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernández, Kanté, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Griezmann, Kolo Muani, Mbappé

Italy:
Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, Dimarco; Barella, Fagioli, Cristante; Chiesa, Scamacca, El Shaarawy

France vs Italy Player to Watch

Kylian Mbappe remains France’s most potent attacking threat. Having recently scored twice for Real Madrid, he will be eager to make an impact on the international stage as well.

Where can I watch France vs Italy?

This match will be broadcast live across various international sports channels and streaming services, but availability may vary depending on your region.