Zinedine Zidane returned to the Stade de France as head coach of the French national team on Friday, overseeing a 1-1 draw against Italy in the UEFA Nations League. The match marked a symbolic return for the former midfielder to the stadium where he led France to victory in the 1998 World Cup final against Brazil.
A Familiar Venue for Zidane’s Coaching Tenure
For Zidane, the Stade de France remains a site of significant professional history. Nearly three decades after his performance in the 1998 final, the Frenchman stood on the touchline leading Les Bleus in a competitive fixture against the same opponent he faced in his final match as a professional player: Italy. That 2006 World Cup final, which Italy won on penalties, remains noted for the confrontation between Zidane and Marco Materazzi.
Olise and Bastoni Trade Goals in Paris
France dominated the tempo of the match for long stretches, utilizing an attacking lineup that featured Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué, supported by Rayan Cherki and Adrien Rabiot in midfield. The breakthrough arrived in the 54th minute when Olise scored from a direct free kick, curling a strike into the top-left corner of Gianluigi Donnarumma’s goal.
Italy responded in the 65th minute through Alessandro Bastoni. The defender anticipated a move by Da Cunha at the edge of the penalty area and beat French goalkeeper Mike Maignan to equalize. Throughout the match, Italy relied on the verticality of Moise Kean and the mobility of Nicolo Fagioli, while Donnarumma was credited with several key saves to maintain the parity.
Impact of Substitutions and Disciplinary Actions
Eduardo Camavinga provided a spark for the French attack before leaving the game with 25 minutes remaining, forcing two significant saves from Donnarumma. The match, officiated by Spanish referee Jesús Gil Manzano, saw physical play throughout. Fagioli received a caution, and Dayot Upamecano was sent off in the 85th minute after receiving a second yellow card.
Standings in the Nations League Group
This result represents the first draw for France under Zidane in the current Nations League group stage. His previous matches as head coach resulted in a 1-0 loss to Turkey and a 1-0 loss against Belgium. Italy, under the direction of Roberto Mancini, now holds a record of one draw, one loss—a 2-0 defeat to Belgium—and a 4-1 victory over Turkey in the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Nations League group?
Following the draw, France has one draw and two losses under Zidane. Italy holds one win, one draw, and one loss in their group campaign.
Who were the primary goalscorers in the match?
Michael Olise opened the scoring for France in the 54th minute with a free kick. Alessandro Bastoni leveled the score for Italy in the 65th minute.
Will Dayot Upamecano be available for the next match?
Upamecano was sent off in the 85th minute of this match after receiving a second yellow card.
