Italy vs. France: Raymond Domenech Criticizes the Azzurri but Is Then Stunned

Former France head coach Raymond Domenech set social media ablaze during the match between the Azzurri and the French at San Siro. The former coach of Les Bleus sparked a debate on X at the end of the first half by commenting on the 1-1 score.

“Italy-France 1-1—this is something that goes beyond the wildest dreams of the Italians. They’re weak in every area, but what’s most surprising is their technical level. They make so many mistakes on simple passes: it’s alarming,” reads Domenech’s scathing critique, as he’s typically unsparing toward the Azzurri.

His next tweet after the match, however, expressed astonishment: “Italy-France 3-1? How is that possible? How can you lose your bearings completely like that? The French national team’s defensive shortcomings have been confirmed.” Fans unleashed their sarcasm, dredging up painful memories for Domenech—those of the 2006 Berlin final.

Zidane’s France took the lead in the 10th minute through Olise, capitalizing on a build-up error by Donnarumma, before Italy managed to respond. The equalizer came in the 26th minute from Pio Esposito, then Frattesi put Italy ahead in the 62nd minute, and Pio Esposito himself sealed the victory with a penalty kick in the 74th minute, bringing his total to nine goals in 14 appearances for the Azzurri. This victory puts them level at the top of the group and ahead of France on goal difference, with the final outcome to be decided on the last matchday, when the Azzurri will face Belgium and the French will take on Turkey.