The Italian national team secured a precious victory over France with two goals to one in the UEFA European World Cup qualifiers, topping their group and strengthening their prospects of reaching the tournament after a painful absence in the two previous editions.
Coach Spalletti's striker Giacomo Bachetta opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a superb dribble inside the penalty area, before the winning goal came from left back Di Cilio via a well-placed header in the 72nd minute.
The French team attempted to get back into the match through sustained second-half pressure, managing to pull one back in the 78th minute — but Italy's resolute defense locked down and refused to concede further.
Italy manager Luciano Spalletti stated that this victory represents the national team's powerful return to the international stage, emphasizing that the new generation of players fully understands what the Azzurri shirt means and the responsibility that comes with wearing it.
Italy top the group with six points from four matches, two ahead of second-placed Portugal. A World Cup 2026 berth is now within reach if the team maintains its level over the remaining four fixtures.
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