Adrien Rabiot played a pivotal role in France's 3-1 victory over Italy at the San Siro, securing their top spot in Nations League Group A2 with a brace. The former Juventus midfielder scored twice from Lucas Digne's set-pieces, once in each half, in a match where both teams had already qualified for the quarterfinals. Rabiot's performance ensured that France leapfrogged Italy on goal difference, with both teams tied on points before the match.
Digne, who also made his 50th appearance for France, contributed significantly to the second goal, sending in a brilliant free-kick in the 33rd minute that ricocheted off the woodwork and into the net off Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. This strike put France on track to top the group, needing a two-goal margin to surpass Italy. Digne’s persistence in forcing a goal off Vicario's back added to France’s commanding performance.
Italy briefly regained the lead when Andrea Cambiaso scored a neat first-time finish following a well-executed passing move involving Federico Dimarco and Sandro Tonali. However, Rabiot’s header in the 65th minute ensured France secured the win and a positive end to a tumultuous international break, which had included controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappé's absence and a frustrating draw with Israel earlier in the week.
Despite Italy’s spirited display, with over 68,000 fans present at the San Siro, the match highlighted Italy's defensive fragility, with the last six goals conceded coming from set-pieces. A particularly disappointing performance came from Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario, who was standing in for Gianluigi Donnarumma, left out due to illness. This match, along with Italy’s struggles in defense, underscored the challenges they faced following a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign.
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