Italy vs France Prediction | UEFA Nations League (Mon, Nov 18, 04:45)

• Game time: Monday, November 18, 04:45 CET
• Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy
• Match Prediction: Italy 2-1 France

Italy Preview: The Renaissance of the Azzurri

Under the guidance of former Napoli head coach Luciano Spalletti, who led Napoli to the Serie A title in the 2022/23 season, Italy’s national team has seen a resurgence. This rejuvenated squad needs only a single point in this fixture to secure the top spot in Group A of the UEFA Nations League, staying ahead of their formidable opponents, France.

Italy showed solid performance just days ago in Brussels, securing a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Belgium. A key contributor was Newcastle United’s midfielder Sandro Tonali, who scored an early goal that laid the foundation for Italy’s resilient display.

France Preview: Under Pressure

French manager Didier Deschamps faces mounting pressure following recent disappointing performances and results. After a lackluster 0-0 draw against Israel at the Parc des Princes in Paris, speculation is rife that Deschamps might be facing his final days as head coach if his team fails to turn things around this month.

France, the two-time World Cup champions, suffered a 1-3 defeat to Italy in their September Nations League clash, which added to the growing frustrations within the French camp. With both injuries and form issues among key players, the stakes are high as they head into this crucial encounter against Italy.

Team News and Lineups

Italy: Midfield Challenges

Italy will be without key midfielder Samuel Ricci, who is sidelined due to suspension, while Lorenzo Pellegrini also misses out due to injury. These absences will require Spalletti to adapt his midfield setup.

Predicted XI (3-1-4-1-1):

• Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
• Defense: Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni
• Midfield: Nicolo Rovella; Andrea Cambiaso, Nicolo Barella, Sandro Tonali, Federico Dimarco
• Forward: Davide Frattesi
• Striker: Mateo Retegui
• Unavailable Players: Ricci (suspension), Pellegrini (injury)

France: Camavingas Suspension

France also has midfield concerns, with Eduardo Camavinga out due to suspension. Wesley Fofana and Ousmane Dembele are absent due to injuries, adding further strain on Deschamps’ squad depth.

Predicted XI (4-3-3):

• Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
• Defense: Jules Koundé, Ibrahima Konaté, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernández
• Midfield: Warren Zaire-Emery, N’Golo Kanté, Eduardo Camavinga
• Forwards: Michael Olise, Randal Kolo Muani, Bradley Barcola
• Unavailable Players: Fofana (injury), Camavinga (suspension), Dembele (injury)

Key Players to Watch

Nicolo Barella (Italy):

Barella is a crucial presence in Italy’s midfield and one of their most talented players. As an Inter Milan regular, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to orchestrate play from the center of the pitch, quickly gaining recognition as one of the world’s top midfielders. Barella excels in wide positions and has a knack for delivering pinpoint passes and precise shots, making him a versatile and complete midfielder.

Mike Maignan (France):

Following the retirement of Hugo Lloris, Maignan has seamlessly stepped into the role of France’s primary goalkeeper. As AC Milan’s No. 1, he has made 26 international appearances, solidifying his position as a reliable last line of defense. Maignan’s impressive reflexes and shot-stopping abilities make him a pivotal figure in France’s lineup, and he is expected to play a significant role for years to come.

Conclusion

Italy is poised to continue their resurgence under Luciano Spalletti, while France will need to dig deep to overcome their struggles and injury woes. With a solid defense, midfield creativity, and home advantage, Italy is likely to edge out the French team in this exciting Nations League clash.