Tonight, the spotlight is on San Siro as Italy faces France in their final group game of the UEFA Nations League. Both teams have secured their spots in the quarter-finals, but the stakes are still high—topping the group means a coveted top seed in the next round.
The match kicks off at 19:45 GMT, with fans around the globe eagerly following the action.
Italy’s Line-Up and Adjustments
Luciano Spalletti’s Italy has been a dominant force in the group, with every match resulting in victory except for a dramatic 2-2 draw against Belgium. Tonight, the Azzurri need only a draw—or even a narrow one-goal loss—to finish top.
However, there’s been a last-minute shuffle. Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy’s usual stalwart in goal, is sidelined with a stomach bug. Guglielmo Vicario steps in for his fourth cap. Meanwhile, Manuel Locatelli replaces Nicolo’ Rovella in midfield, offering a dynamic presence alongside Sandro Tonali and Davide Frattesi.
Key players like Riccardo Calafiori, Samuele Ricci, and Lorenzo Pellegrini are out due to injuries, but Nicolò Barella retains his pivotal trequartista role, supporting striker Matteo Retegui. The squad’s confidence remains high after a stunning 3-1 comeback win over France in Paris earlier this year.
Italy Starting XI:
- Vicario
- Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni
- Cambiaso, Frattesi, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco
- Barella
- Retegui
France’s Line-Up and Tactical Changes
On the French side, Didier Deschamps has also had to adjust. Milan’s Theo Hernandez is out with a knee issue, while Eduardo Camavinga misses out due to suspension. Deschamps has opted for a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Inter striker Marcus Thuram and Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi in key roles.
France’s formidable attack is rounded out by Christopher Nkunku and Randal Kolo Muani, who will be looking to exploit Italy’s defense. Meanwhile, their midfield strength lies in the combined efforts of Adrien Rabiot, Manu Koné, and Guendouzi.
France Starting XI:
- Maignan
- Koundé, Konaté, Saliba, Digne
- Koné, Rabiot, Guendouzi
- Kolo Muani, Thuram, Nkunku
Match Preview and Implications
This match offers plenty of drama, as both teams aim to make a statement ahead of the quarter-finals. Italy will lean on their recent Paris victory for confidence, while France, eager to bounce back, has all the firepower necessary for an upset.
Fans can expect intense midfield battles, with Locatelli and Rabiot pivotal for their respective teams. Vicario will have his work cut out for him against France’s potent attack, while Retegui will look to capitalize on Barella’s creative support.
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