UEFA Nations League: Olise extends scoring streak for France despite Zidane's first defeat at San Siro

Michael Olise failed to score or assist in his last three games for FC Bayern, but the superstar opened the scoring for France against Italy in UEFA Nations League action on Thursday. However, the hosts recovered from their early setback to record a thoroughly deserved 3-1 win over Les Bleus.

The 24-year-old winger extended his scoring run with France to four games as he was in the right place to punish Gigi Donnarumma, whose poor form at club level continued with a big mistake on his return to San Siro. Roberto Mancini’s side leveled the score before the half-time break with a goal from Francesco Pio Esposito.

The older brother of Inter's striker, Sebastiano, missed a penalty-kick at the hour mark, but Davide Frattesi’s strike and a successful penalty later on from “Pio” sealed a 3-1 win for Gli Azzurri. Olise’s Bayern teammate Dayot Upamecano played the entire game, while Wolfsburg's Saël Kumbedi made his debut by replacing his former Lyon teammate Malo Gusto.

Both teams now have ten points in the group, but Italy are ahead with a better head-to-head record. Despite suffering their first defeat under Zinedine Zidane, France will only need a draw against Türkiye in the final matchday in Bordeaux. 

Türkiye lost all five matches so far as former Wolfsburg and Werder Bremen attacking midfielder Kevin de Bruyne inflicted their latest defeat against Belgium on Thursday. Marc van Bommel’s side will have a home advantage against Italy as only a point separate the sides before Sunday's showdown.