Italy's Nations League draw places them in Group A with France, Belgium and Türkiye. For bettors, France are clear favourites to top the group, with Belgium a strong challenger; Italy look likeliest to contest second spot — sensible bets: France to win the group and Italy to advance (each-way), or focus on match markets and cautious handicap/goal-line selections.
Italy drawn with France, Belgium and Türkiye in Nations League Group A
Italy have discovered their opponents for the UEFA Nations League group stage. Gennaro Gattuso’s Azzurri will face France, Belgium and Türkiye in League A Group A after the draw in Brussels.
How the draw unfolded
France were seeded in Pot 1 and landed in Group A. Italy came from Pot 2, Belgium from Pot 3 and Türkiye completed the quartet from Pot 4. The draw featured national football figures and took place on Thursday evening in Brussels.
Key figures present and coaching context
FIGC president Gabriele Gravina and former Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci were among those at the event. Gattuso now prepares Italy for a tough group after the previous Nations League campaign ended in a quarter-final loss to Germany, with Luciano Spalletti having led that side.
Group analysis: strengths and challenges
France arrive as clear favourites, boasting a deep squad and consistency in major competitions. Belgium remain a dangerous opponent with individual quality capable of deciding tight games. Türkiye can be unpredictable and may spring surprises, making the group finely balanced for second place.
What this means for Italy
Italy face a high-quality set of fixtures that will test both defence and attack. Gattuso must balance squad rotation and tactical nous to secure points at home and on the road. Qualification from the group looks feasible but will require consistent performances against France and Belgium.
Betting implications and market angles
Punters should regard France as the likely group winners, with Italy as a realistic second-place contender. Recommended market approaches: back France to top the group, consider each-way or outright bets on Italy to advance, and explore match-level markets (both teams to score, under/over goal lines, and narrow handicap options) for potentially better value.
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Italy have discovered their opponents for the UEFA Nations League group stage. Gennaro Gattuso’s Azzurri...
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