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| France vs Italy | |
| SCHEDULE | TIME |
| Match: | France vs Italy |
| Tournament: | UEFA Nations League |
| Match Date: | Sat, Sep 7 2024 |
| Match Time: | 12:15 a.m. Indian Time (UTC +5:30) |
| Stadium: | - |
| Broadcast Lists | |
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France Faces Tough Start in UEFA Nations League 2024-25 Against Italy and Belgium
In the upcoming UEFA Nations League 2024-25, France will kick off their campaign against Italy and Belgium. Known as Les Bleus, France has been placed in a challenging Group B alongside Italy, Belgium, and Israel. They will first face Italy and then Belgium in their September fixtures. After a disappointing semifinal exit at Euro 2024, where they struggled to perform under pressure, France, led by Didier Deschamps, will be eager to bounce back. Having won the UEFA Nations League in the 2020-21 season, Les Bleus are well-equipped to secure the trophy once again.
Italy, on the other hand, had a rough time at Euro 2024. The team, which had previously won the tournament, was knocked out in the Round of 16 by Switzerland. Despite a promising start under coach Luciano Spalletti, Italy hasn’t managed to win any of their last three matches. This raises concerns about how they will compete against top teams in Group B, especially with tough matches against Belgium and France on the horizon.
| France | Lineup |
France Possible XI: Maignan (GK); Kounde, Konate, Saliba, Hernandez; Fofana, Kante; Dembele, Griezmann, Barcola; Mbappe
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| Italy | Lineup |
Italy Possible XI: Donnarumma (GK); Gatti, Buongiorno, Calafiori; Di Lorenzo, Cristante, Fagioli, Dimarco; Raspadori, Pellegrini; Retegui | |
Injury Concerns and Squad Changes for France and Italy
France is facing a few injury issues ahead of their upcoming match. Real Madrid players Ferland Mendy and Aurélien Tchouaméni have picked up injuries during training, which could impact their availability. On a positive note, coach Didier Deschamps has called up Michael Olise and Wesley Fofana to the squad. Both players have been impressive for their clubs, and their inclusion could bring a fresh dynamic to the team.
Italy, meanwhile, has made some notable changes to their squad. Caleb Okoli from Leicester City has been called up for his first international cap, adding a new face to the team. Midfielder Sandro Tonali is also back after serving a suspension. However, there are a couple of concerns for Italy as well. Nicolo Barella has been left out of the squad to undergo an operation, and Alessandro Bastoni will miss the match due to a minor injury he sustained during training.
| Head-to-Head | |
| France - 11 Italy - 18 Draw - 8 Total Matches - 37 |
Key Players to Watch: France vs Italy
Kylian Mbappé (France)
Kylian Mbappé is one of the top football stars in the world right now. Last season, he had an incredible run, scoring 44 goals and providing 10 assists across all competitions. Mbappé recently fulfilled his dream move to Real Madrid, where he has already netted three goals in just five games. Known for his lightning-fast speed and sharp finishing skills, Mbappé will be a major threat for France in their upcoming matches
Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy)
Gianluigi Donnarumma is a top-class goalkeeper who has made a name for himself with his impressive saves and strong performances. Playing for PSG, Donnarumma has already made over 66 appearances for the Italian national team, taking over the role from legendary keeper Gianluigi Buffon. He was a standout performer at the Euros, showcasing his excellent reflexes and even saving a crucial penalty against Luka Modrić. Donnarumma's skills will be crucial for Italy in their upcoming games.
How to Watch France vs Italy, Streaming Channels and Links
India – Sony Sports Network, SonyLiv
UK – Apple TV
US – FOX Sports App, Fox Sports 2
Nigeria – Apple TV
