Zinedine Zidane's first home game as France's national team coach resulted in a 1-1 draw against Italy in the Nations League on Friday. The match, held at Stade de France, saw French fans greet Zidane with enthusiasm, including chants of "Zizou, Zizou" and a "Bienvenue Chez Toi" banner.
France took the lead in the 55th minute when Michael Olise scored with a curling shot from 20 meters, assisted by Rayan Cherki. However, Italy equalised midway through the second half through central defender Alessandro Bastoni.
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was a key figure, making multiple saves to deny France, including a double save from Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, and a crucial stop from Eduardo Camavinga in stoppage time after France defender Dayot Upamecano was sent off.
Zidane, 54, took over as France coach after the World Cup, replacing Didier Deschamps. His previous two games, both away in the Nations League, were 1-0 victories against Turkey and Belgium.