France drew 1–1 with Italy on Friday evening at the Stade de France, where Michael Olise scored a free-kick to become one of three players to score two free-kicks for France since 2000, alongside Zinedine Zidane and Dimitri Payet. The result leaves France atop Group A1 with seven points after three matches, while Italy sits on four points ahead of hosting Turkiye.
Stade de France Draw Leaves Les Bleus Atop Group A1
Michael Olise broke the deadlock in the 55th minute before Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni equalized for Italy midway through the second half. The match unfolded before a crowd of 77,118 spectators in Saint-Denis. France played the final minutes with ten men after Dayot Upamecano received a second yellow card in the 85th minute. The draw keeps France narrowly ahead of Belgium in Group A1 standings as both sides prepare to meet again on Monday.
Olise’s 55-minute strike marked his second direct free-kick goal for the senior national team, following an earlier set-piece conversion against Croatia on March 23, 2025, in the Nations League quarter-finals. According to Opta data, Olise joined an exclusive group as only the third French player to score two free-kicks since 2000. Zinedine Zidane recorded the first such goals prior to his retirement in 2006, and Dimitri Payet subsequently matched the feat through his prowess on dead-ball situations.
Zidane Leads National Team in Home Debut Against Familiar Foes
The fixture marked Zinedine Zidane’s first home match as coach of Les Bleus following his appointment. The matchup carried historical resonance, pitting Zidane against Italy, the same opponents as in his final game as a player. Playing without captain Kylian Mbappe—who returned to his club due to a knee injury sustained against Turkiye—Zidane deployed Olise in the starting lineup among six changes from the previous victory over Belgium.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Nations League Match
What was the final score between France and Italy?
The match ended in a 1–1 draw after Michael Olise opened the scoring for France and Alessandro Bastoni equalized for Italy.
Where did the match take place?
The fixture was played at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, just outside Paris, in front of 77,118 spectators.
Who scored France’s goal and how?
Bayern Munich star Michael Olise scored in the 55th minute by curling a free-kick off the crossbar after Rayan Cherki laid off the dead ball.
What are the upcoming fixtures for both teams in the tournament?
France will face Belgium on Monday for their final match of the international window, while Italy prepares to host Turkiye.
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