Luciano Spalletti hails Sandro Tonali and Samuele Ricci after historic win v France

Spalletti was full of praise for his midfield duo after they starred in Italy's 2-1 win over France

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti hailed Sandro Tonali and Samuele Ricci after they starred in Italy's 2-1 win over France in the UEFA Nations League.

Tonali, 22, and Ricci, 21, both started in midfield for Italy and played a key role in their victory.

Tonali scored the opening goal of the game, while Ricci provided the assist for the second goal, scored by Wilfried Gnonto.

"They are two very good players," said Spalletti.

"They have a great future ahead of them."

Spalletti also praised the team's overall performance.

"It was a great win for us," he said.

"We played very well and deserved to win."

The win was Italy's first over France since 2011.

It was also the first time that Italy had beaten France in a competitive match since the 1998 World Cup.

The victory will give Italy a boost ahead of the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Italy are in Group E at the World Cup, alongside Costa Rica, Germany and Japan.