Italy vs France 3-1: San Siro Comeback Sends Azzurri Top
Italy claimed their first home victory against France since May 1962 with a 3-1 comeback win at the San Siro Stadium in Milan on November 12, 2026, propelling the Azzurri to the top of their UEFA Nations League group on 10 points. Manager Roberto Mancini confirmed that securing the group outright requires a result in their upcoming fixture against Belgium in Brussels.
Mancini Weighs Up Squad Constraints Ahead of Brussels Trip
The result shifts the dynamic of the group standings significantly, though squad rotation forces immediate adjustments as goalscorer Davide Frattesi misses the upcoming fixture. Italy recovered from an early tenth-minute deficit caused by Michael Olise, overcoming a missed penalty from Sebastiano Esposito before goals from Francesco Pio Esposito and Frattesi overturned the scoreline.
The campaign now enters its final group phase matchday, testing the squad’s physical development following an opening defeat to Belgium in September. All that remains to secure quarter-final qualification is a point on Sunday, November 15, 2026.
“A great performance, the lads did so well, I am happy for the fans and hope they enjoyed themselves,” Mancini told RAI Sport. “The goal was an error, unfortunately these things happen. We managed to stay calm, continued playing, and eventually thoroughly deserved the victory.”
Reported by RAI Sport.