Italy 1-3 France: Les Bleus ruin Ventura's Azzurri bow

The 68-year-old, who replaced Antonio Conte at the national team helm, suffered defeat in his first game in charge to Didier Deschamps' men in an international friendly in Bari

Giampiero Ventura suffered defeat in his first game in charge of Italy as his side slipped to a 3-1 loss at the hands of France in an international friendly on Thursday.

The Azzurri fell behind to an Anthony Martial strike in the first half but replied four minutes later through Graziano Pelle.

However, France restored their lead moments later when Olivier Giroud found the back of the net at Stadio San Nicola in Bari.

And Italy, who handed a senior debut to 17-year-old Gianluigi Donnarumma, were unable to rally under new boss Ventura as Layvin Kurzawa wrapped up a morale-boosting win for France on the 81st minute.

More to follow.