Bastoni Earns Italy Nations League Draw Against France in Paris
Italy fought back to claim a 1-1 UEFA Nations League draw against France at the Stade de France, with Alessandro Bastoni cancelling out Michael Olise’s second-half opener in Paris.
Match facts
| Item | Figure | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Final score | France 1-1 Italy | UEFA Nations League, Stade de France |
| Goals | Olise 55’, Bastoni 68’ | Italy recovered after falling behind |
| Expected goals | France 1.15, Italy 1.56 | Italy created the stronger statistical chances |
| Discipline | Upamecano sent off | France defender received a second yellow late on |
Olise put the home side ahead 10 minutes after the interval, finding the net with a well-struck finish as France enjoyed long spells on the ball.
Italy responded through Bastoni in the 68th minute. The defender carried possession through the middle before applying a composed finish to level the contest.
Gianluigi Donnarumma was central to the visitors’ resistance. The goalkeeper made several important interventions, with his save from Adrien Rabiot’s effort standing out as the toughest of the night.
“Coming back to Paris is always a pleasure,” Donnarumma said. “It was special for me to play here and see so many friends. We delivered a strong display. The Rabiot save was probably the hardest one, and I am pleased I could help the team.”
Roberto Mancini’s side absorbed sustained French pressure through a disciplined defensive shape led by Bastoni and Donnarumma. France were unable to turn their possession into a winner, even before Dayot Upamecano’s late dismissal for a second booking.
Italy could not capitalise on the extra man in the closing stages, but leave the French capital with a point and a confidence boost. The draw also means the Azzurri have suffered just one defeat in their past 12 away Nations League group games.
Next, Italy will look to preserve that away resilience in their forthcoming international fixtures while continuing to bring new players into Mancini’s group. France remain in Paris for their next matchday assignment on Monday.
