Zidane's France Held 1-1 by Italy in Home Debut After Olise Stunner

France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their UEFA Nations League opener at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis on Friday, as Zinedine Zidane's home debut as head coach ended in frustration. Michael Olise gave the hosts a stunning first-half lead, but Alessandro Bastoni equalised for Italy to deny France all three points.

Olise's opener, a curling effort from outside the box, showcased the young winger's growing influence, but Italy responded with resilience. Bastoni's goal came after a period of sustained pressure, highlighting France's defensive vulnerabilities. The draw leaves both teams level on one point in the early standings of the Nations League group.

The result puts early pressure on Zidane, who took over the French national team with high expectations. France next face a tricky away fixture, while Italy will look to build on this positive result. The match also raises questions about France's ability to close out games under their new manager.