Esposito Scores Twice as Italy End France Home Drought

Italy, France, Pio Esposito and Roberto Mancini
12 November 2026

Italy beat France 3-1 at San Siro, securing their first home victory over the French national side in 64 years. Twenty-one-year-old forward Pio Esposito scored twice, taking his international tally to nine goals in 14 appearances.

Esposito sealed the result with a 75th-minute penalty after his older brother Sebastiano had missed an earlier spot kick. The Inter Milan striker also scored from open play, earning a standing ovation. Italy now face Belgium with group leadership still at stake.

Why It Matters

Italy's win strengthens their Nations League campaign and highlights Esposito's emergence as a leading international goalscorer.