Italy vs France Predictions

Italy vs France predictions for this Nations League affair. Italy and France, both already through to the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, meet at San Siro on Sunday in a high-profile clash showcasing two of Europe’s elite footballing nations. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Nations League | Nov 17, 2024 at 7:45pm UK at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza

Italy vs France Predictions

Can Italy and France Deliver Another Thrilling Contest in Milan?

• Italy’s Consistent Form: The Azzurri have gone unbeaten in their last five matches, winning four and conceding just twice during that run.
• France’s Scoring Troubles: Les Bleus have failed to score in two of their five Nations League games, including their recent draw with Israel.
• Both Teams to Score Likely: Five of Italy’s last seven matches have seen both sides find the back of the net, highlighting their mixed defensive record.

Our Tips

San Siro will host two European football giants, Italy and France, as they conclude their UEFA Nations League group-stage campaigns. With both nations already assured of quarter-final spots, the stakes may not feel as high, but there is still plenty to play for. Italy sit atop the group and need only to avoid losing by two or more goals to finish first. Meanwhile, France must produce an emphatic victory to leapfrog their rivals and claim the top position.

The Azzurri, led by Luciano Spalletti, have found their rhythm following a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign. Their recent 1-0 win over Belgium showcased their resilience, while their group form—four wins and one draw—has been solid. France, on the other hand, arrive under more scrutiny. Didier Deschamps’ side struggled to break down Israel in a frustrating goalless draw, and the absence of Kylian Mbappé has amplified their creative issues. As these two historic rivals clash again, the stage is set for an intriguing contest that may hinge on tactical ingenuity and individual brilliance.

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Best Bet: Draw

A draw emerges as the most logical prediction for this heavyweight encounter. With Italy needing only a point to secure first place in the group, their approach may prioritise structure and discipline over risk-taking. France, while desperate for a win, have lacked fluency in the final third, especially without their talismanic forward Mbappé. These factors combine to suggest a closely contested match that could end in a stalemate.

Italy’s tactical approach under Spalletti has been calculated and effective. The Azzurri’s midfield trio, anchored by Sandro Tonali and bolstered by Nicolò Barella, provides both defensive stability and attacking thrust. However, with France boasting a physically dominant midfield featuring Adrien Rabiot and Eduardo Camavinga, Italy may find their usual control disrupted. This dynamic could result in a tactical deadlock, with neither side finding enough rhythm to dominate.

On France’s end, the attacking unit lacks the cohesion needed to consistently penetrate organised defences. Randal Kolo Muani and Kingsley Coman are likely to spearhead the French attack, but both have yet to deliver consistent performances at this level. Against an Italian defence led by Alessandro Bastoni and Federico Dimarco, they may struggle to find the breakthroughs they require.

Both teams are likely to focus on avoiding errors, particularly with club football resuming soon after. This cautious mindset might further reinforce the likelihood of a draw. As BettingTips4You.com expert Luca Pratesi aptly summarises:
“With Italy’s defensive resilience and France’s struggles in attack, this game feels destined for a stalemate. Both sides have much to lose and little to gain by overcommitting.”

Correct Score Prediction: 1-1 Draw

A 1-1 scoreline fits the narrative of a balanced yet slightly restrained encounter. Italy have found the net regularly in this tournament, but their focus in this match is likely to lean towards maintaining defensive solidity. Mateo Retegui, who has been in scintillating form for club and country, remains their primary goal threat. His sharpness in the box and ability to capitalise on set pieces could provide Italy with their goal.

France, despite their struggles, still possess the individual quality to create moments of brilliance. Adrien Rabiot, who often steps up in high-pressure scenarios, could be the key to unlocking the Italian defence. With Michael Olise or Coman operating from the flanks, France may exploit Italy’s occasional lapses in wide areas to produce an equaliser.

Both teams are unlikely to sit back entirely, but the weight of the occasion and their respective strategies suggest a game where opportunities are limited. A single goal each seems a fair reflection of their current forms and ambitions in this match.

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