France, Portugal Shoot Blanks As Italy Settle For Stalemate In Poland

PARIS, France- France and Portugal played out a cagey UEFA Nations League goalless draw at the Stade de France on Sunday to remain locked together at the top of League A, Group 3.

Despite the array of attacking talent in their teams, Portugal, the reigning European and Nations League champions, and world champions France managed just four shots on target between them.

France came in on a five-game winning run having scored 11 goals in their last two matches while Portugal had won their last four competitive internationals.

Yet the match was a repeat of the cautious Euro 2016 final at the same stadium which was 0-0 after 90 minutes before Eder scored the winner for Portugal in extra time.

On Sunday, Porto centre back Pepe did head the ball into the net from a free kick but was judged offside and Cristiano Ronaldo, chasing his 102nd international goal, was denied by a flying save from Hugo Lloris in added time.

"We didn't score a goal, but we weren't here to score goals," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. "France are a great team. They have great players. It's not always possible to create opportunities."

For France, Kylian Mbappe had a one-on-one chance but goalkeeper Rui Patricio anticipated his gentle chip.

Italy failed to make their most of their domination on Sunday as they settled for a goalless draw against Poland in their Nations League A, Group 1 match in Gdansk.

Italy, top of the group with five points, nevertheless extended their unbeaten run under coach Roberto Mancini to 18 matches. 

"We had several opportunities, especially in the first half when we could have scored at least two goals," said Mancini.

"The pitch was in very bad condition which could have played a role. Beyond the result, however, we are happy. We didn't score but it happens."

Italy host the Netherlands, who have four points, in Bergamo on Wednesday with Poland, also on four points, taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina in Warsaw.