Gennaro Gattuso's tenure as Italy's coach began successfully with a 5-0 victory against Estonia in a World Cup qualifier, putting their campaign back on track. Meanwhile, France also initiated their bid for the 2026 tournament with a 2-0 victory against Ukraine, highlighted by a goal from Kylian Mbappe.

Italy, the four-time World Cup champions, are aiming to end their absence from the World Cup since 2014. The team dominated the first half against Estonia but couldn't find a breakthrough until Moise Kean scored with a header in the 58th minute, assisted by Mateo Retegui. Italy then scored twice in three minutes, with goals from Retegui and Giacomo Raspadori, followed by another header from Alessandro Bastoni. Retegui scored twice in the match.

Gattuso praised his players' attacking mindset. He acknowledged the risks involved in such an approach but emphasized the importance of playing with "hunger, hard work, and humility". Gattuso said that they wanted to attack and that means taking a few risks at this level. He also added that the team has an objective, which is to make the people happy and give enthusiasm back to the Italians.

Italy is currently third in Group I, six points behind leaders Norway, who have played one game more. Three points separate Italy from second-placed Israel. Italy is set to play against Israel in Hungary.

In the Group D match held in Wroclaw, Poland, France secured a 2-0 victory over Ukraine. Michael Olise scored early in the 10th minute, followed by Kylian Mbappe's goal in the 82nd minute. Mbappe’s goal was his 51st for France, equaling Thierry Henry's record as the country's second-highest goalscorer. Only Olivier Giroud has scored more with 57 goals.

Mbappe used "pace and skill to elude Ukraine defender Illia Zabarnyi" to score his goal. Mbappe had the most touches inside the penalty area and the joint-most shots. France's coach, Didier Deschamps, highlighted the team's attacking quality. Deschamps handed maiden caps to Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike and Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche. France will face Iceland next.

Switzerland defeated Kosovo 4-0, with goals from Manuel Akanji, Breel Embolo (2), and Silvan Widmer. Greece defeated Belarus 5-1. Slovenia and Sweden drew 2-2.