Two-time world champions France are set to face neighbours Italy in a UEFA Nations League match on Friday, marking new coach Zinedine Zidane’s first home game in charge. The encounter at the Stade de France, north of Paris, will see Zidane, who succeeded Didier Deschamps in late July, aim for a third consecutive victory after guiding the team to two away wins.

This match holds particular significance as it comes 20 years after Zidane's infamous headbutt incident during the 2006 World Cup final against Italy. Zidane, a former captain, has had a successful start to his tenure, with France maintaining their winning momentum despite the absence of captain Kylian Mbappe due to injury, showcasing the team's depth.

Italy, also managed by a former player in Roberto Mancini, are looking to build on their recent performance. Mancini's return to the helm was initially met with jeers but was followed by an emphatic victory in their second game. The Azzurri, four-time World Cup winners, will be seeking to challenge France's current top position in Group A1.

The match is anticipated to be played before a near sell-out crowd of approximately 80,000 spectators, highlighting the high stakes and interest surrounding this European rivalry. The atmosphere is expected to be charged as both nations vie for crucial points in the Nations League.

The UEFA Nations League, established in 2018, aims to replace less competitive friendly matches with meaningful fixtures between European nations. The league structure includes promotion and relegation, adding an element of consequence to each game.

France currently leads Group A1 with six points, having secured 1-0 victories against Turkiye and Belgium. Italy, meanwhile, sits second-to-last in the group with three points, following a 2-0 loss to Belgium and a decisive 4-1 win over Turkiye.

In their most recent Nations League encounter in November 2024, France emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline against Italy in Milan. Adrien Rabiot scored twice, and an own goal from Guglielmo Vicario sealed the win, with Andrea Cambiaso netting Italy's sole consolation goal.

Historically, France and Italy have met 41 times, with Italy holding a superior record with 20 wins compared to France's 12, and nine draws. France's recent form shows three wins and two losses in their last five games, while Italy's record is three wins, one loss, and one draw.