The fifth round of the UEFA Nations League group stage got underway with a blockbuster encounter at the San Siro, where Italy secured an impressive 3-1 victory over France.
France made a flying start to the contest, taking the lead after just 10 minutes. Michael Olise capitalised on an error by Gianluigi Donnarumma before breaking into the heart of the Italian defence and finding the back of the net.
However, Italy responded in the 26th minute. Niccolò Cambiaghi drove forward down the left flank before delivering a pass that Pio Esposito converted to bring the Azzurri level at 1-1. France nearly regained the lead in the 35th minute, but Bradley Barcola's effort struck the post.
The entertaining encounter continued after the interval, with Italy coming close to taking the lead in the 60th minute. Sebastiano Esposito stepped up to take a penalty but sent his effort narrowly wide of the goal.
The Azzurri eventually found their breakthrough in the 63rd minute. Federico Dimarco made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, delivering an assist for Davide Frattesi, who put the hosts 2-1 ahead.
Italy were awarded another penalty in the 75th minute, and this time Pio Esposito made no mistake, converting from the spot to complete his brace and seal a memorable 3-1 victory.
The result took Italy to 10 points, moving them above France at the top of the group. Both sides are level on points, but the Azzurri hold the advantage thanks to their superior goal difference of +5, compared to France's +3.
