France Held to 1-1 Draw by Italy Despite Michael Olise Goal

France came close to another Nations League victory but were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy at the Stade de France, ending their perfect start to the competition.

The first half ended goalless, but the game came alive after the break. France took the lead in the 55th minute through Michael Olise.

Rather than shooting directly from a free kick, Rayan Cherki played the ball toward Olise. The French winger produced a superb left-footed strike that clipped the crossbar before finding the net, leaving Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance.

Olise had already been decisive in France’s previous match, scoring a spectacular late winner against Belgium. His goal against Italy looked set to make him the match-winner again.

Italy, however, responded just 13 minutes later. Alessandro Bastoni, who had opened the scoring in Italy’s 4-1 victory over Turkey in their previous match, found the net again. His effort beat Mike Maignan to bring Italy level at 1-1.

France were reduced to 10 men late in the match when Dayot Upamecano received a second yellow card. Italy were unable to take advantage of the numerical advantage, however, and the points were shared.

Donnarumma played a key role in securing the draw for Italy, making seven saves throughout the match.

The result ended France’s winning run after they had opened the Nations League with two consecutive 1-0 victories. France remain top of Group A with seven points from three matches, followed by Belgium on six and Italy on four. Turkey remain without a point.

In the other match, Belgium defeated Turkey 3-0, with Kevin De Bruyne scoring twice and Romelu Lukaku adding the other goal.