France held by Italy as Bastoni cancels out Olise stunner in Paris

France and Italy played out one of the most hard-fought games of the latest Nations League round as the two sides drew 1-1 in Saint-Denis. The result ended France’s perfect start to the competition and handed Italy a valuable point on the road.

It was also the first home game for France manager Zinedine Zidane. France had opened their campaign with victories over Türkiye and Belgium, but the meeting with Italy was a sterner test, with the visitors matching the hosts for long periods.

France finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. Michael Olise scored a superb goal from a free-kick situation, curling the ball into the net off the underside of the crossbar. It was a solitary moment of class that seemed to have put France on course for another win.

Italy struck back in the 68th minute. Alessandro Bastoni scored from a defensive mistake, bringing the visitors back into the game. The defender’s goal ensured Italy would depart Paris with a point and not a defeat.

Score highlights

France 1-1 Italy

• ’55’—Michael Olise
• ’68’—Alessandro Bastoni

It got more dramatic in the closing stages when France defender Dayot Upamecano was red-carded. France’s task became even harder as they played with ten men, while Italy had a chance to push for a winner. In the end, France hung on, with keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also making key saves for Italy in the contest.

UEFA’s official report of Matchday 3 called Bastoni’s equalizer a “denial of victory” for Zidane on his first home game as boss. France remained at the top of Group A1 with seven points, while Belgium moved up to second with six after beating Türkiye 3-0. Italy, four points.

The draw also illustrated how quickly the balance can change in international football. France was in control with Olise’s brilliant opener, but Italy had a composed attacking move before profiting from the late dismissal.

The result was a reminder to France that it would take more than attacking talent to keep a perfect record in League A. Up next for the team is Belgium, who enter the game after an impressive 3-0 win over Türkiye but will be without De Bruyne and Tielemans due to suspension.

Meanwhile, Italy can be pleased with the point they earned in Paris. Bastoni’s goal showed they could take their chances, as France could not add to Olise’s spectacular opener, thanks to the defensive work. The 1-1 draw leaves Group A1 delicately poised and sets up another crucial round of fixtures.