Italy delivered a masterclass in defensive solidity and clinical finishing to shock France, with Matteo Esposito scoring twice to seal a decisive victory. The young forward, who has been a standout performer in recent youth tournaments, capitalized on defensive lapses from the French backline to put the Azzurri ahead early. His second goal, a composed finish in the second half, extinguished any hope of a French comeback and cemented Italy’s status as a serious contender in the tournament.
The 18-year-old phenom dismantles Les Bleus’ defense to secure a historic victory for Azzurri.
The match statistics highlight Italy’s tactical discipline, as they limited France to minimal shots on target despite ceding possession in the final third. Italy’s midfield controlled the tempo effectively, breaking up play and launching rapid counter-attacks that exposed gaps in the French defensive structure. Esposito’s movement off the ball was pivotal, drawing defenders out of position and creating space for his teammates, although it was his individual brilliance that ultimately decided the contest.
This victory marks a significant turning point for Italy, who have struggled to find consistent form in recent international campaigns. The performance boosts morale ahead of upcoming group stage fixtures and underscores the depth of talent within the current squad. With Esposito emerging as a key figure, Italy now holds the momentum and confidence needed to navigate the tougher challenges ahead in the tournament.
Source: Sky Sports
