France will host Italy in a UEFA Nations League Group A fixture at the Stade de France on Friday, October 2, 2026, with kickoff set for 8:45 p.
m. local time.
The match will be broadcast live on TF1.
Head coach Zinedine Zidane leads Les Bleus into their third group match after consecutive 1-0 road victories over Turkey and Belgium.
Group A Standings and Recent Form
France sits on six points in Group A, and another win would significantly strengthen its path toward the Final 4 tournament.
The squad showed improved tactical progression in the recent victory against Belgium, with higher pressing and faster ball distribution.
The team has held scheduled shooting practice ahead of Friday's match to maintain its form.
Italy arrives after a 4-1 win over Turkey, recovering from an earlier 2-0 loss to Belgium.
The Squadra Azzurra holds three points in the group, level with Belgium.
France's probable lineup features Mike Maignan in goal, backed by Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, Maxence Lacroix, and Adrien Truffert.
Rayan Cherki, Manu Kone, and Adrien Rabiot are expected in midfield, with Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Desire Doue leading the attack.
Italy is projected to field goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma alongside Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Giorgio Scalvini, Alessandro Bastoni, and Riccardo Calafiori in defense.
Davide Frattesi, Sandro Tonali, and Nicolo Barella form the midfield, with Moise Kean, Pio Esposito, and Sebastiano Esposito leading the front line.
France aims for its third consecutive UEFA Nations League victory as Zidane's squad prepares to face Italy at the Stade de France on Friday.
