Italy vs France: Preview, predictions and lineups

The stage is set for a mouthwatering clash between Italy and France in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals on Wednesday. The two European giants will lock horns at the San Siro in Milan, with a place in the final on the line.

Italy will be looking to continue their impressive recent form, having won their last five matches in all competitions. Roberto Mancini's side are unbeaten in 2023, and they will be confident of overcoming France in front of their home crowd. France, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing defeat to Denmark in their last outing. Didier Deschamps' side have a number of injury concerns, but they will still be confident of causing Italy problems.

Team news

Italy have no major injury concerns, with Mancini able to select from a fully fit squad. France, on the other hand, have a number of players who are doubtful for the match. Karim Benzema, Kylian Mbappe, and Paul Pogba are all carrying knocks, and it remains to be seen whether they will be fit to play.

Predicted lineups

Italy (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Spinazzola; Barella, Jorginho, Verratti; Chiesa, Immobile, Insigne France (4-3-3): Lloris; Pavard, Varane, Kimpembe, Hernandez; Tchouameni, Kante, Rabiot; Griezmann, Benzema, Mbappe

Preview

Italy and France have a long and storied history, and their matches are always hotly contested. The two sides have met 39 times in total, with Italy winning 17 matches, France winning 12, and 10 matches ending in a draw. The last time the two sides met was in the group stage of the 2020-21 UEFA Nations League, with France winning 2-1. However, Italy have won the last two competitive meetings between the two sides, and they will be confident of extending their winning streak on Wednesday. Italy are the form team heading into the match, and they will be looking to make the most of their home advantage. France, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their recent defeat and prove that they are still the team to beat. This is a match that could go either way, and it is sure to be a fascinating encounter.

Prediction

Italy are the slight favorites heading into the match, but France have the quality to cause them problems. I predict that the match will be a close affair, but Italy will ultimately win 2-1.