After the euphoria of their victory in Brussels, Italy came crashing back to earth with a bitter 3-1 defeat to a determined and superior France at the Meazza. Didier Deschamps’ side secured top spot in the Nations League group, leaving the Azzurri in second and facing a tougher quarterfinal draw. Despite Italy’s promising 2024 campaign, last night’s match exposed key weaknesses, particularly on set pieces and against physically dominant opponents, as underscored by six set-piece goals conceded in recent matches.
France started strong, showcasing a compact structure and relentless pressing. Their opening goal came early, as Adrien Rabiot headed home unmarked from a Lucas Digne corner. Italy struggled to build momentum, with Matteo Retegui isolated and ineffective up front. A brief reaction, led by Nicolò Barella and Federico Dimarco, was overshadowed by France’s second goal—a superb Digne free-kick that doubled their lead. Italy’s pride shone through when a well-worked team move set up Dimarco to assist Andrea Cambiaso, who pulled one back, reigniting the San Siro crowd.
In the second half, France maintained their dominance, excelling in both physical duels and tactical control. Despite substitutions by Luciano Spalletti, Italy failed to shift the game’s narrative. Rabiot secured his brace with another set-piece goal, sealing the 3-1 result. Italy pushed forward in the closing minutes with a more offensive setup but created significant danger only in stoppage time, where an excellent Mike Maignan denied a late consolation goal.
The defeat is a bitter pill to swallow but doesn’t erase the progress Italy has made in recent months. As they close out 2024, the Azzurri are aware that Spalletti’s project is still a work in progress. To compete at the highest level, they must address the physical and mental gaps laid bare by a French side that, deservedly, reaffirms its status among the world’s elite teams.
