The Stade de France welcomed Zinédine Zidane back on Friday night, but France had yet to find the decisive touch by the interval against Italy. The Nations League meeting remained goalless at half-time, despite a first period largely controlled by the home side.
France had begun life under their new coach with two narrow 1-0 victories, first away to Turkey and then in Belgium. Italy represented the third test of Zidane’s new spell in charge, and his team again showed an ability to dictate possession and territory.
Yet control did not become clear chances before the break. Les Bleus moved the ball well and spent long stretches on the front foot, but Italy were not seriously threatened as the teams went into half-time level at 0-0.
