It’s a mammoth encounter no matter which way you look at this, but the San Siro will play host when France visits Italy on Sunday.
With both nations looking to secure second spot in their Nations League Group A2 – this should be an enthralling affair for sure!
Betting Odds Supplied by Hollywoodbets:
To Win (90 mins)
Italy 33/20
Draw 7/4
France 17/10
Italy
Italy head coach, Luciano Spalletti is able to welcome Nicolo Barella back into his midfield for this encounter. The inter Milan midfielder was left out of international duty in October so that he was able to have nose surgery, and his gritty physicality in the middle of the park will be a welcomed addition for the Azzuri.
Whilst there are still a few noticeable absentees, Daniel Maldini – son of the great Paolo Maldini – has been called up to make his debut. There will no doubt be inherent pressure with the youngsters inclusion, but given that he is absolutely fearless, he will no doubt fit right into this Italian side!
The Italians conceded after less than a minute last time out but managed to fight back and claim an impressive 3-1 victory. Admittedly, since flattered to deceive during the European Championships earlier this year, they look much sharper in front of goal and compact without the football. Added to this is the inclusion of some new faces and all of a sudden, they are once again a serious footballing nation.
France
Didier Deschamps made headlines earlier this month when he left Kylian Mbappe out of the French squad. In truth, since joining Real Madrid during the summer, Mbappe has failed to come even remotely close to the ability we know and have come to expect from him.
Interestingly, this comes on the back of Mbappe receiving some harsh criticisms by French fans after removing himself from selection for the Israel and Belgium games. This situation isn’t ideal for French football, but with that being said, Mbappe has blown hot and cold.
France has often been tailed by the notion that their squad is always a few steps behind an absolute breakdown – think back to the 2010 FIFA World Cup! Preferential treatment for supposed ‘big names’ in the squad has caused a divide – but it is up to Deschamps to see his chargers do justice to their ability.
France was another nation who disappointed at the European Championships, they reached the final four but did so in a way that was seriously unbecoming of Champions. Nevertheless, they look almost certain to reach the business end of this tournament here.
Prediction: Italy (33/20)
There is no question that Italy come into this game with more confidence, possibly a better team dynamic and the belief that they are able to blow France away.
I think they have a really good opportunity here to earn another impressive win over the French, and without Mbappe on the field, I wonder whether France might have a vulnerable attack which will meet a rigid defence and clever attacking Italian side.
Written by: Ryan Liberty