Pio Esposito’s two goals in Italy’s 3-1 Nations League win over France have earned widespread praise, with several Italian outlets naming the Inter striker their player of the match and one comparing his display with England captain and 2026 Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane.
The 20-year-old now has nine goals in his first 14 caps for Italy. At his current scoring rate, Esposito is on course to challenge Gigi Riva’s national record of 35 goals.
Corriere dello Sport awarded Esposito a rating of 9/10 and described him as a “constant thorn” in France’s side.
“He fought like a lion, often left alone against everyone,” the newspaper said in its report.
Sky rated him 8/10 and suggested Esposito could become the “heir to Gigi Riva’s throne” as Italy’s leading goalscorer.
“Exuberant, courageous and combative,” was Sky’s assessment of the striker’s performance.
La Gazzetta dello Sport also gave Esposito 8/10, drawing a comparison with Kane after highlighting the forward’s movement and all-round contribution.
“His movement, which makes everyone lose track of him, a complete performance,” wrote the newspaper.
TMW awarded Esposito 8/10 and said his display was “nothing new”, adding that Italy now possess a “great centre-forward” after waiting “too long” for one.
Corriere della Sera agreed with the 8/10 rating.
Esposito’s performance has prompted wider discussion about Italy’s attacking options and whether the national team have finally found the leading forward they have been missing.
Peter Young, a senior reporter with Football Italia, wrote: “It’s taken 20 years but do we finally have the great forward we have been looking for? It’s looking like it and with potentially Cisse if he keeps pushing on we could have a formidable attack for years to come.”
Young added: “I think we are a Jorginho midfielder away from being a very good side. The defence is looking a lot stronger too and with Palma, Leoni and Ahanor coming through the future is looking bright.”
