Olise scores a great free-kick and gives France a fleeting advantage
According to Sports.
Context
Bayern Munich player Michael Olise has been fundamental for France, especially in the absence of Kylian Mbappé. His ability to score goals and create opportunities is a valuable asset for the team, which is preparing for the 2026 World Cup. Olise's performance could influence his candidacy for the Ballon d'Or, reflecting his importance in the context of international football.
Why this matters
France's victory over Italy is crucial for the team's confidence, especially with the absence of Kylian Mbappé. The performance of Michael Olise, who stands out as the goal man, could have a significant impact on the team's preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The game also marks an important moment for Zinedine Zidane, who celebrates his first home goal as coach.
Main conclusions
- Olise scores a great free-kick and gives France a fleeting advantage.
- Michael Olise's free-kick gives France a short lead against Italy.
- 📸 Olise hits screamer vs. Italy to continue incredible run of form 🔥 - Yahoo Sports.
Michael Olise once again took center stage for France with a moment of pure class against Italy. The Bayern Munich winger, who was the king of assists at the last World Cup, has asserted himself as Bleus' goal man in the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappé — and, tonight, he signed another chapter of luxury.
After Roberto Mancini's team managed to hold off the French team during the first 55 minutes, Gianluigi Donnarumma could do nothing to stop the studied free kick that opened the scoring. Rayan Cherki played short to Olise and the left-footed shot a missile: the ball kissed the post and went in, an undefendable shot that left the Italian goalkeeper pinned to the pitch.
The explosion in the stands had an echo on the French bench: Zinedine Zidane effusively celebrated what was the first home goal of his era at the helm of France. The moment underlined Olise's simply remarkable start to the season, which, in addition to his increasing weight in the national team's goals, even harbors a remote hope of a candidacy for the Ballon d'Or, such is the influence and quality he has displayed.
However, the Gallic joy was very short-lived. After just 13 minutes, Italy reacted and restored equality in a move born from a bad French ball. A central defender from Transalpine appeared suddenly in the last third, took advantage of the lack of concentration and finished with the coolness of an old-fashioned striker, momentarily silencing the local party and rebalancing a European classic always full of history and competitive tension.
Until then, the Italian defensive organization had managed to stop the attacks of a domineering France in possession, but with difficulties in dismantling the block. The thunder of Olise's free kick broke the Azzurri squad's straitjacket, but the response showed why this clash is one of the richest in national team football. Mancini adjusted, his players moved up lines and the match entered an intense back-and-forth, with fierce individual duels and each dead ball promising danger.
With the clock ticking, the big question in Paris was simple: could Olise decide again and offer Zidane victory on his home debut? Regardless of the outcome, the French international once again proved that, in a dead ball moment or in an individual tear, he is now one of Les Bleus' most lethal weapons. And, while Mbappé recovers, France finds in Olise a silent leader, capable of resolving big games — like this one against eternal rival Italy.
What happens next
After the draw, France must adjust its strategy to guarantee consistent results in the next matches. Olise's continued form will be vital for the team, especially as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Italy, in turn, will seek to consolidate its defense and improve its attacking effectiveness for the next challenges.
Frequently asked questions
What is France's recent football form?
France has shown a remarkable performance, with Michael Olise standing out as the man in goal in the absence of Kylian Mbappé.
Is Kylian Mbappé injured?
Yes, Kylian Mbappé is absent due to injury.
How important is the game between France and Italy?
This game is a European classic and has an impact on the preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Who scored the goal for France against Italy?
Michael Olise scored a free-kick for France.
How Zidane reacted to the goal
the one from France?
Zinedine Zidane effusively celebrated the goal, which was the first at home in his era as France coach.