Francesco Pio Esposito double helps Italy overturn France at San Siro

Italy came from behind to beat France 3-1 at San Siro on Thursday and move to the top of their UEFA Nations League group.

France took an early lead in Milan when Michael Olise capitalised on a costly mistake by Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 10th minute.

Donnarumma misplaced a pass while attempting to build from the back, allowing Olise to take possession. The France forward then went past Alessandro Bastoni before finishing into the net.

Italy levelled in the 26th minute despite France controlling much of the opening period. Francesco Pio Esposito converted Nicolo Cambiaghi’s assist to restore parity before half-time.

France continued to threaten after the interval, with Donnarumma making several important saves. The goalkeeper denied efforts from Rayan Cherki and Adrien Rabiot as the visitors looked to regain the advantage.

Italy were handed an opportunity to go ahead in the 60th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Sebastiano Esposito sent his effort wide.

The home side did not have to wait long for a second goal, however. Davide Frattesi put Italy in front in the 63rd minute after being set up by Federico Dimarco, prompting loud celebrations at San Siro.

Italy grew stronger after taking the lead and continued to put pressure on the France defence. Their reward was a second penalty, which Francesco Pio Esposito converted in the 75th minute to claim his second goal of the match.

That strike also made amends for his brother Sebastiano’s earlier miss.

France attempted to respond but could not break through an Italy midfield and defence that held firm in the closing stages. The result gave Italy a 3-1 victory over Zinedine Zidane’s side.

The outcome leaves Italy first in the group on 10 points, ahead of France on goal difference and head-to-head record. Belgium are third with nine points, while Turkey are bottom without a point.

The reverse fixture between the teams finished 1-1. Olise had put France ahead with an excellent free-kick before Bastoni equalised for Italy.

Italy will now travel to face Belgium in their final group match with a greater margin for error. A draw would be enough to secure their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.