Zidane, however, described the loss to the Azzurri as a ‘learning process’ for his players.
By Kehinde Okeowo
France head coach Zinedine Zidane has explained why his team lost 3-1 to Italy in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday night, saying they ‘were second-best in duels and one-on-one situations’.
He made this known during his post-match press conference while addressing journalists following the surprise defeat.
Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise opened the scoring for Les Bleus in the 10th minute, but Pio Esposito equalised for the hosts 10 minutes later.
Davide Frattesi then gave Italy the lead for the first time in the match in the 63rd minute, before Esposito established a two-goal advantage from the penalty spot.
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The latest defeat means Zidane’s men have failed to beat the Azzurri home and away.
Reacting to the loss, the French tactician admitted his players were ‘second-best’ on the night, adding that the team also lost their shape after conceding.
Speaking after the match, Zidane said: ‘We were second-best in duels and one-on-one situations. That’s part of the learning process.
’We lost our shape, especially defensively, after Italy scored.’
