France and Italy Prepare for Stade de France Clash as Esposito Brothers Make History

Brothers Francesco Pio and Sebastiano Esposito are in line to start in attack for Italy against France at the Stade de France, following a historic selection milestone earlier in the week. Records show the Italian national team had not featured two brothers in a starting lineup since 1915 until their joint appearance against Turkey.

The fixture in Paris brings together an Italy squad featuring the 21-year-old Inter Milan forward Francesco Pio Esposito alongside his 24-year-old elder brother Sebastiano, who plays for Sassuolo. During Monday’s 4-1 victory over Turkey, Francesco Pio scored his sixth international goal in just his 11th appearance for the Nazionale.

Stade de France Encounter Follows Historic Turkey Victory

Monday’s match in Turkey marked the first time the Esposito brothers were selected together in the starting XI. Sebastiano Esposito earned his senior call-up to join his younger sibling, anchoring the right flank for the Italian formation during their comprehensive win.

That fixture ended a 111-year drought for Italian football regarding sibling combinations in the starting lineup. The younger Esposito capitalized on the occasion by netting his sixth goal for the senior team, setting the stage for their continued partnership on the pitch in Friday’s away fixture against France.

Inter Milan and Sassuolo Forwards Form New National Attack

Francesco Pio Esposito has established himself as a central figure in the Italian attack, operating as the main center-forward from Inter Milan. His older brother Sebastiano brings width to the tactical setup, taking up duties on the right wing following his introduction to the senior squad.

Neither player featured together at this level prior to Monday’s match in Turkey, making the upcoming encounter at the Stade de France their second start side by side.

Italy fields first pair of brothers since 1915

When did Italy last start two brothers in a match before the Esposito brothers?

Historical records show that the Italian national team had not fielded two brothers in a starting lineup since 1915, prior to the Esposito brothers’ selection against Turkey on Monday.

How many international goals has Francesco Pio Esposito scored?

Francesco Pio Esposito has scored six goals in 11 appearances for the senior Italian national team, reaching the milestone during the 4-1 victory over Turkey.

Which clubs do Francesco Pio and Sebastiano Esposito play for domestically?

Francesco Pio Esposito plays as an avant-centre for Inter Milan, while his older brother Sebastiano Esposito plays for Sassuolo.