MILAN (ITALPRESS) – France beat Italy 3-1 with France at the Meazza on the last day of the group stage of the League of Nations 2024/2025 and finished second in group 2 of League A: A brace from Adrien Rabiot and an own goal by Vicario from a free kick by Lucas Digne, with Cambiaso the Italian goal. Didier Deschamps’ side started strongly and took the lead after just two minutes with Adrien Rabiot’s header following Digne’s corner kick. The Azzurri immediately try to deal with the disadvantage, coming to a decision in the 9th minute with Barella, but Maignan blocks without problems. The transalpine team defend in a very orderly manner and Italy struggle to find the right places to hit their opponents. In the 25th minute Di Lorenzo attempted a header from Dimarco’s cross from a free kick, but missed the target. Luciano Spalletti’s men attacked, but in the 33rd minute France scored again with an unfortunate goal by Guglielmo Vicario (on the field in place of Donnarumma who was stopped by an intestinal virus) from a free kick from Lucas Digne . There wasn’t even time to celebrate for the French, as the Azzurri closed the gap two minutes later with Andrea Cambiaso: the Juventus player took advantage of Dimarco’s cross and put the ball in the bottom of the bag.
Both teams, therefore, go to the break with a score of 1-2. In the second half, Italy had a rather superficial approach and lost too many balls, lending to the attack of the French team and in the 58th minute Vicario had to think not to say no to Nkunku. The Azzurri respond with long-range efforts from Dimarco and Locatelli, who are however lost at the back. In the 65th minute, France regained the lead with two goals thanks to a brace from Adrien Rabiot, who took advantage of Digne’s cross from a free kick to score the winning goal. Luciano Spalletti’s side responded again with Cambiaso’s misdirected shot, which went wide. The Italian coach’s substitutes shook the team, and, after failing to make a good chance with Kean in full recovery, they had to concede 3-1 against the French team. As a result of this result, France will fly to the semi-finals as first place on goal difference, while Italy will go into the next round as second in the group, where they meet Germany, Spain and Portugal.
(ITALPRESS).
– Photo by Ipa Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
In determining the outcome of the match. Their ability to perform under pressure made a significant difference in France’s overall strategy and execution.
Guest 1: Prof. Matteo Bonarini, Football Historian at the University of Milan:
Q: What are your thoughts on France’s tactics against Italy in the League of Nations game? Was their early lead an advantage or a disadvantage for their overall performance?
A: France’s tactics in the League of Nations game were quite effective as they managed to score two goals in the first half and maintain their lead throughout the match. The early lead definitely gave them momentum and confidence, which made it difficult for Italy to come back. However, it could also have made them a bit complacent, allowing Italy some chances in the second half. France played well defensively and took advantage of their opportunities when they presented themselves.
Q: How do you rate Italy’s performance in the match, especially considering they were playing without their starting goalkeeper?
A: Italy’s performance was somewhat disappointing, especially considering the circumstances. Losing the starting goalkeeper to illness can be a significant setback, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-drilled French defense. Their lack of cohesion in the midfield and attacking third was evident. However, it’s important to note that this was just a friendly match and not a World Cup qualifier, so it’s hard to read too much into it.
Q: What role did the substitutions play in shaping the outcome of the game?
A: Italy’s substitutions seemed to spark some life into their team, but it was too late to make a significant impact. France, on the other hand, made some intelligent substitutions that helped maintain their lead and see out the game. Substitutions can often be decisive in football matches, and this one was no exception.
Guest 2: Federico Fiore, Sports Columnist for Corriere dello Sport:
Q: How important was the presence of Rabiot and Digne for France’s victory over Italy?
A: The presence of both Rabiot and Digne was crucial for France’s victory. Rabiot’s brace, especially the first goal, gave France an early lead and momentum, while Digne’s accurate free kicks led to two of their goals. Their experience and quality on the field were clear to see, and they played decisive roles
