PARIS — France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their UEFA Nations League group-stage encounter at the Stade de France on Friday, denying Zinedine Zidane a winning start in his first home match as France head coach.
After a goalless first half, France took the lead in the 55th minute through Michael Olise. The forward unleashed a superb long-range effort from a free-kick delivered by Rayan Cherki, with the ball striking the underside of the crossbar before finding the net.
It was Olise’s 14th goal in 15 appearances for France this year.
Italy levelled in the 68th minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake. Alessandro Bastoni intercepted the ball from Luca de Cunha before advancing towards the edge of the penalty area and beating France goalkeeper Mike Maignan with a composed finish.
France were reduced to 10 men in the 85th minute when defender Dayot Upamecano received a second yellow card and was sent off.
Italy held firm defensively during the closing stages to secure a point away from home and deny France victory.
In the other group match, Belgium, coached by Mark van Bommel, defeated Turkey 3-0. Kevin De Bruyne scored twice, while Romelu Lukaku added the third.
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