France vs Italy: World Cup head-to-head record
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France and Italy have faced each other 5 times in World Cup history, with Italy holding a slight edge with 2 victories to France's 1, plus 2 draws that went to penalty shootouts. Their meetings span from 1938 to 2006, including two quarter-finals, one Round of 16, and the dramatic 2006 final.
The rivalry is defined by close contests and penalty drama, with both drawn matches decided by spot-kicks - France advancing in 1998 and Italy claiming the ultimate prize in 2006.
Complete World Cup Head-to-Head Record
The France vs Italy World Cup rivalry showcases some of football's most memorable encounters. Italy struck first in their 1938 quarter-final meeting with a 3-1 victory, then added another win in their 1978 group stage clash (2-1). France's breakthrough came in 1986 with a commanding 2-0 Round of 16 victory.
The two penalty shootout encounters tell the story of this evenly-matched rivalry. In 1998, France progressed 4-3 on penalties after a goalless quarter-final draw. Eight years later, Italy exacted revenge in the most dramatic fashion possible, defeating France 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the World Cup final. For comprehensive World Cup coverage and live updates during the 2026 tournament, fans can track all matches on Bola 2026.
| Year | Stage | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1938 | Quarter-finals | France 1-3 Italy | Italy won |
| 1978 | Group Stage | Italy 2-1 France | Italy won |
| 1986 | Round of 16 | Italy 0-2 France | France won |
| 1998 | Quarter-finals | Italy 0-0 France | France won 4-3 pens |
| 2006 | Final | Italy 1-1 France | Italy won 5-3 pens |
Frequently asked questions
When did France and Italy last meet at the World Cup?
France and Italy last met at the 2006 World Cup final, where Italy won 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Which team has more World Cup wins between France and Italy?
Italy leads with 2 victories to France's 1, plus 2 draws that went to penalty shootouts in their 5 total World Cup meetings.
Have France and Italy ever met in a World Cup final?
Yes, France and Italy met in the 2006 World Cup final in Germany, with Italy winning 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.