France begin their UEFA Nations League campaign with a heavyweight clash against Italy at the Parc des Princes, with both teams looking to bounce back from underwhelming Euro 2024 campaigns.
Les Bleus have had the upper hand in this matchup, winning the last three friendlies against Italy. However, the Azzurri triumphed in their last competitive meeting in the group stage of Euro 2008.
That loss is now a distant memory, and while Friday’s Group A2 clash is the first competitive meeting between them since then, France’s unbeaten run of five home games should see them approach this encounter confident of making a winning start to their Nations League campaign.
However, Les Bleus will need to improve as an attacking unit. A recurring criticism of manager Didier Deschamps has been his inability to foster a more fluid playing style despite the abundance of attacking talent at his disposal. This was particularly noticeable during Euro 2024, where France frequently relied on set pieces and own goals to break down defences.
This highlights just how integral Kylian Mbappe is to this French side. The French captain has been imperious since his move to Real Madrid, scoring three goals in five matches, and will be pivotal to their chances. However, Les Bleus will have to cope without injured duo Ferland Mendy and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Italy’s poor away form suggests Les Bleus may have little to fear, as the Azzurri have failed to win any of their last six away games. Manager Luciano Spalletti’s constant tinkering could be a contributing factor, with a lack of cohesion, particularly in attack, apparent during the Euros, where they managed just three goals in four matches.
Alessandro Bastoni’s absence also leaves a significant gap in defence, further compounding their issues as they continue to adapt to Spalletti’s evolving tactics.
Betting Tip: Kylian Mbappe Anytime Scorer
06/09 19:45 France – Italy Kylian Mbappe Anytime Scorer @ 2.09 (Betking)
Games between these two teams have averaged over three goals, but with both sides currently struggling in attack, a lower-scoring affair seems more likely on Friday.
France’s strong home record, combined with Italy’s poor away form, should tip the encounter in favour of Les Bleus.
In what is expected to be a tight match, Kylian Mbappé’s exceptional ability to both create and finish chances could be the difference.
Therefore, our betting tip is to back Kylian Mbappe to score anytime at 2.09 odds on Betking.
France vs Italy - Kylian Mbappe Anytime Scorer @ 2.09
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