Sports Desk: France emerged as the champions of Group A-2 in the UEFA Nations League, defeating Italy 3-1 in a decisive match on Sunday.
The win secured their place in the quarterfinals, while Italy, finishing as runners-up, also advanced to the top eight.
Both teams ended the group stage with 13 points from 6 matches, but France topped the group due to a superior goal difference. Belgium and Israel finished third and fourth in the group with 4 points each.
In Sunday’s match, Italy hosted France in an exciting encounter. France struck early, with **Adrien Rabiot** opening the scoring just 2 minutes into the match, converting a brilliant pass from **Lucas Digne**.
The French doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Italy’s **Guglielmo Vicario** scored an own goal, gifting France a 2-0 advantage.
Italy responded quickly, reducing the deficit to 2-1 just 2 minutes later when **Adrián Cambiaso** found the net for the hosts.
However, France restored their two-goal lead in the 65th minute as Rabiot netted his second goal of the match, assisted once again by Digne, making it 3-1.
The scoreline remained unchanged, securing a vital win for France. The match also marked a milestone for both Rabiot and Digne, who played their 50th international matches.
Rabiot celebrated the occasion with a brace, while Digne marked the milestone with a pair of assists.