France is set for a marquee clash against Italy in their opening match of the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League on Friday at the Parc des Prices, Paris.
Hosts France are looking to bounce back from a semifinal exit at 2024 Euro. Didier Deschamps' side will look to set the tone for their Nations League campaign with a strong performance at home.
Meanwhile traditional powerhouses Italy have been nowhere near their best. After failing to qualify for 2022 World Cup, the Azzurri were unable to retain their European championship title as they went out in the Round of 16.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
France vs. Italy live stream, TV channel in Canada
Here's how to watch this UEFA Nations League match in Canada:
TV channel: —
Live stream: DAZN
This game is not available for live TV Broadcast for viewers residing in Canada. Streaming options are available on DAZN.
What time does France vs. Italy kick off in Canada?
This UEFA Nations League clash takes place at Parc des Princes in Paris, France, and kicks off on Friday, September 6 at 8:45 p.m. local time (CEST).
Here's how that time translates across Canada:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Atlantic Time | Fri, Sep. 6 | 4:45 p.m. |
| Eastern Time | Fri, Sep. 6 | 3:45 p.m. |
| Central Time | Fri, Sep. 6 | 2:45 p.m. |
| Mountain Time | Fri, Sep. 6 | 1:45 p.m. |
| Pacific Time | Fri, Sep. 6 | 12:45 p.m. |
France vs. Italy lineups, team news
Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has earned his first call-up after a standout performance at the Olympics, where he contributed to seven goals in France's silver medal finish. Newly signed Roma midfielder Manu Kone is also in line for his senior debut.
Olympian Loic Bade was added to the squad following Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana's withdrawal due to fitness concerns.
Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne has been called in as a replacement for Ferland Mendy, while Matteo Guendouzi, has been included as midfield cover.
France predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Maignan (GK) — Kounde, Saliba, Konate, T. Hernandez — Kante, Tchouameni, Zaire-Emery — Dembele, Thuram, Mbappe.
Injured: N/A
Suspended: N/A
Italy will be missing Gianluca Scamacca (ACL injury) and Nicolo Barella, who recently underwent scheduled sinus surgery.
Azzurri boss Luciano Spalletti has confusingly left forward Federico Chiesa off the squad. In total, eight players from Euro 2024 squad are unavailable. Marco Brescianini and Caleb Okoli have received their first call-ups.
Italy predicted XI (3-4-2-1, right to left): Donnarumma (GK) — Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni — Cambiaso, Fagioli, Frattesi, Dimarco — Pellegrini, Zaccagni — Retegui.
Injured: Scamacca, Barella
Suspended: N/A
France vs. Italy prediction
Italy have a slight historical advantage, as they have won 18 of the 37 matches contested between the two teams. France as won 11 and eight matches have ended in a draw.
But the Azzurri are currently bereft of talent and confidence. They also lack a potent striker who can take advantage of a slightly vulnerable French defence.
On the other hand, France have done well in major competitions in recent times and have a well-oiled unit with Mbappe leading the attack. Playing in front of their home fans, Les Bleus may win this one comfortably.
Prediction: France 2-0 Italy
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