Italy came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over France in Milan, handing Zinedine Zidane his first defeat since taking charge of the French national team.
France were without injured forwards Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, but Michael Olise gave them an early lead in the 10th minute after capitalising on a misplaced pass from Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Francesco Pio Esposito restored parity for Italy, steering home Nicolo Cambiaghi’s pass before France came close to regaining the lead, with Bradley Barcola and Rayan Cherki both hitting the woodwork.
Italy missed an opportunity to move ahead when Sebastiano Esposito fired a second-half penalty wide. However, Roberto Mancini’s men recovered as Davide Frattesi powered home Federico Dimarco’s cut-back to put the hosts in front.
Francesco Pio Esposito then completed his brace, converting from the penalty spot after Dayot Upamecano brought down substitute Antonio Vergara.
The victory lifted Italy above France to the top of Group A1 on head-to-head record. Both sides have accumulated 10 points ahead of the final round of fixtures, while Belgium remain just one point behind.
Belgium will host Italy on Sunday, while France welcome Turkey in their final group matches.
Meanwhile, Turkey suffered a fifth consecutive defeat after losing 2-1 to Belgium in Izmir.
Arda Guler gave Turkey the lead with a stunning free-kick under new manager and former midfielder Sergen Yalcin.
However, Belgium responded with two goals in quick succession, as Kevin De Bruyne and Charles De Ketelaere found the net to secure victory for the visitors.
