New Italy debutant Vergara: ‘The result gave us confidence but Olise’s free kick left me speechless’

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 15: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 15, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Antonio Vergara says Italy’s 1-1 draw with France gave the Azzurri renewed confidence, while admitting Michael Olise’s free-kick left him ‘speechless’ on his international debut.

The Napoli forward was handed his first Italy appearance in the 62nd minute at the Stade de France, replacing Francesco Pio Esposito as Roberto Mancini introduced him to the action.

Vergara had only recently received his first senior Italy call-up, but showed no signs of nerves against one of Europe’s strongest sides. His energy and attacking movement helped Italy push France back after Olise’s spectacular free-kick had opened the scoring.

The 23-year-old also helped create opportunities for Moise Kean and Nicolo Barella as Italy pushed for a winner, making an encouraging first impression despite having to settle for a point.

“I felt comfortable among so many champions. In the end, the French are human too,” Vergara told La Repubblica, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

The one exception, perhaps, was Bayern Munich star Olise’s remarkable set-piece.

“It left me speechless.”

Italy ultimately had to settle for a draw despite creating chances to claim all three points, but Vergara believes the performance can give the Azzurri further belief.

“We played a good game. Playing against France is not easy and having even risked winning gave us more confidence.”

There was no sense of disappointment for the Napoli attacker.

“Absolutely not. It is a point gained, not two points lost.”

Vergara also praised Mancini’s work on the players’ mentality and believes Italy are beginning to develop a new identity under their coach.

“Mancini works a lot on the psychological side. He convinces us of our ability and asks us to be happy when we are on the pitch. We are starting to see what the new Italy can be.”