Some stories refuse to end. 20 years ago, Zinedine Zidane’s playing career finished with a red card in Berlin, and Italy celebrated with the World Cup. Now, on Friday night in Paris, he sits in the France dugout and the same opponents walk out to face him.

Zidane’s start as coach has been calm, not spectacular. Two games brought two 1-0 wins and top spot in their UEFA Nations League group. But now Kylian Mbappe is out with a knee injury, so France must find a new hero. Michael Olise, who has been at the heart of their recent goals, is the man to watch.

Italy, though, are dangerous. Roberto Mancini’s side lost 2-0 to Belgium, then smashed Turkey 4-1. Young striker Pio Esposito keeps scoring, and a nation that has missed three World Cups in a row is hungry for a big night.

Here are expert predictions, latest odds and best sportsbook promos for for France vs. Italy. Plus, new users can bet $5 on this match and get $150 in Bonus Bets at DraftKings Sportsbook.

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France vs. Italy prediction: Who will win?

France have won both games under Zidane by a single goal, and each time they kept a clean sheet, which shows how solid their defence has become. Italy scored four against Turkey, yet that was the only time in their last five matches that they managed more than one goal.

France are without Mbappe but they still have class around the pitch. It would be a tough ask for Mancini. 

Score Prediction: France 2, Italy 0 (+800 at DraftKings)

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France vs. Italy best bets

We’ve picked three betting angles for France vs Italy. Check them out below before placing your bets on the match.

France have won nine of their last 11 matches, including both games under Zidane. They also have the firepower to get the job done at home even without Mbappe.

Italy have scored more than one goal in only one of their last five matches. France have shown defensive nous in this Nations League. And don’t think Mancini would set up Italy to match France’s firepower. Expect a tight, tactical game. 

Olise has been involved in both goals in the Nations League for France and he also scored a goal in their last home game, so expect him to do the damage here again. 

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Best same game parlay for France vs. Italy

Here is out favorite SGP for France vs. Italy:

• France to win ML
• Under 3.5 goals
• Michael Olise 1+ goals+assists

MORE: Complete guide to parlay betting

Best Premier League sportsbook promos

Here are some of the current Sporting News sportsbook welcome offers to consider when comparing legal betting sites. Promotions change frequently and depend on state eligibility.

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Wales vs. Norway odds

France are strong favourites to beat Italy in the Nations League. Find odds at the time of writing below or follow it live with The Sporting News.

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