Frank Christian
As the top team in their Nations League group, Italy aims to claim the top seed in the quarterfinals with a home match against France in Milan this Sunday.
Italy’s performance over the last decade has been inconsistent, having missed the last two World Cup tournaments despite winning Euro 2020.
They faced a setback at Euro 2024, but an undefeated run in the Nations League has restored their confidence. With four wins and a draw in a challenging group including Belgium and Israel, a draw against France will secure the top position for them.
Meanwhile, France will be without star player Kylian Mbappe, who has been surprisingly omitted by Didier Deschamps for this match. France recently played to a 0-0 draw with Israel, and will need to rally their attacking strength to make a strong impression before the knockout phase.
Match Overview: Italy vs. France Predictions
- Predicted Moneyline: Draw (+225 on BetMGM)
- Score Forecast: Italy 2-2 France
Coach Luciano Spalletti has brought Italy back to form, overcoming a shaky start with an impressive run in the Nations League. Despite not having as many renowned players, the Azzurri have shown effective teamwork, scoring 12 goals across five matches.
Knowing they only need a draw to secure the seeded spot in the quarterfinals, Italy is expected to at least match against a French team they previously outplayed in Paris.
| BetMGM (USA) |
|
| Italy Victory | +165 |
| Draw | +225 |
| France Victory | +155 |
| Both Teams to Score |
Y: -120 N: -115 |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals |
O: +100 U: -145 |
| France -0.5 Goals |
+145 |
| Italy +0.5 Goals |
-210 |
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
- Kickoff Time: 8:45 p.m. local (2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT)
- Stadium: San Siro (Milan, Italy)
- Official: Slavko Vincic (SLV)
- Previous Encounter: France 1-3 Italy (Sep. 6, 2024 | UEFA Nations League)
Best Bets for the Match
- Recommendation: Over 2.5 Total Goals
- Odds: +100 (BetMGM)
The opportunity for even money odds presents great value, as both teams have showcased a stronger offensive display this Nations League, despite their reputations for solid defenses.
Italy’s goal-scoring has come from various players, including a recent contribution from Sandro Tonali, who netted a goal against Belgium.
Although missing Mbappe, France should not be underestimated following their scoreless draw; they created numerous chances, demonstrating that their attacking threat remains intact.
Prop Bet Insights
- Choice: Michael Olise to Score or Assist
- Odds: +230 on FanDuel
Despite the absence of Mbappe, Michael Olise emerges as a key player for France. His strong form at Bayern Munich has carried over to the national team, where he is expected to make an impact. After a series of opportunities in his last match, his ability to deliver is likely to emerge against Italy.
