France vs Italy meet at Stade de France in Saint-Denis on Friday, 2 October 2026 in UEFA Nations League League A Group A1. France arrive with six points from two wins, while Italy have three points after responding to their opening defeat with a 4-1 win away to Türkiye.
Kick-off is at 18:45 UTC / 20:45 local time. France have started the group strongly, while Italy return to Saint-Denis after finding their attacking rhythm in Bursa. The rivalry also carries a long history, with Italy holding the stronger overall head-to-head record. Use the current form, team news and match factors below to build your own view before making a prediction on SportPesa.
Overview
| Match information | Details |
| Fixture | France vs Italy |
| Date | Friday, 2 October 2026 |
| Kick-off | 18:45 UTC / 20:45 local time |
| Venue | Stade de France, Saint-Denis |
| Competition | UEFA Nations League 2026/27 |
| League / Group | League A — Group A1 |
| France points | 6 |
| Italy points | 3 |
France opened with a 1-0 win away to Türkiye before beating Belgium on Matchday 2. Italy lost 2-0 at home to Belgium in their opener but responded with a 4-1 win in Türkiye. That leaves France top of the immediate head-to-head contest in form, while Italy arrive with renewed momentum.
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France vs Italy team news and current form
France have carried strong momentum into the Nations League window and have shown they can manage different game states. Their ability to progress the ball through midfield and attack quickly once space opens remains one of the main strengths Italy must contain.
Italy arrive after a much-improved performance in the 4-1 win over Türkiye. Giacomo Raspadori has left the Italy camp after medical tests confirmed he will miss the upcoming matches, while Nicolò Zaniolo is also unavailable. That reduces some of Roberto Mancini’s attacking options ahead of the trip to Saint-Denis.
Confirmed lineups should still be checked close to kick-off. For live scores, lineups and changing match statistics, use SP Score.
France vs Italy H2H
France and Italy have one of international football’s longest-running rivalries. UEFA records 41 previous senior meetings before this fixture, with France winning 12, Italy winning 20 and nine ending in draws.
Italy have the stronger overall historical record, but more recent meetings have often been much tighter. The Nations League context also makes the current form and squad availability more useful than relying only on the long-term head-to-head numbers.
Key players and match factors
France’s ability to control territory without slowing the game down will be important. Their midfield can move the ball quickly into attacking areas, and their wide players can stretch Italy’s defensive shape if the visitors sit too deep.
Italy will look to carry forward the confidence from their win in Türkiye. Their midfield balance, pressing choices and ability to play through France’s first line will influence whether they can spend enough time in advanced areas rather than defending for long periods.
The first goal could have a major tactical impact. France have shown they can protect a lead, while Italy’s response in Bursa demonstrated that they can create multiple chances once the game becomes more open.
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Make your France vs Italy prediction on SportPesa
After reviewing the current form, H2H and match factors, open the SportPesa football markets to make your own France vs Italy prediction. Find the fixture, compare the available markets and current odds, then choose the selection that matches your own assessment of the game.
Depending on market availability, options may include match result, double chance, over/under goals and both teams to score. If you are new to the platform, read how to place a bet on SportPesa before submitting your selection.
You can also review SportPesa’s guide to understanding football betting and odds before deciding which market fits your view of the match. 18+. Bet responsibly.
France vs Italy FAQs
When is France vs Italy?
France vs Italy takes place on Friday, 2 October 2026.
Where is France vs Italy being played?
The match is being played at Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
What time is France vs Italy?
Kick-off is scheduled for 18:45 UTC / 20:45 local time.
What is the France vs Italy H2H record?
Before this fixture, UEFA records 41 senior meetings: 20 Italy wins, 12 France wins and nine draws.
Where can I follow France vs Italy live?
Use SP Score for live scores, confirmed lineups and changing match statistics.
Where can I make my France vs Italy prediction?
Open the SportPesa football section, find the fixture, review the available markets and choose the selection that matches your own assessment.
Conclusion
France vs Italy brings together the top two current performers in this Group A1 window, with France on six points and Italy on three. France’s control in possession, Italy’s response after the win in Türkiye and the midfield battle are among the main areas to watch. Use the current form, team news and H2H record to build your own view of the match. When you are ready, check the latest SportPesa football markets and make only the prediction you are comfortable with.
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