The Italian press had nothing but praise for Milan veteran Olivier Giroud after his brace in France’s 4-1 win over Australia at the World Cup.
Injuries to Karim Benzema and Christopher Nkunku thrust the 36-year-old Rossoneri striker into the limelight for Les Bleus, with Didier Deschamps requiring him to lead the line for France’s World Cup opener. Giroud did not disappoint and almost managed to bag a hattrick as he hit the mark against Australia.
La Gazzetta dello Sport were impressed with Giroud’s work, highlighting how his brace was a good response after failing to find the back of the net at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Attention was also drawn to his acrobatic bicycle kick attempt and the fact that he is now France’s all-time top scorer alongside Thierry Henry.
Corriere dello Sport echoed the sentiments of their counterparts, praising Giroud’s eye for goal and the Milan link-up with Theo Hernandez for his second strike.
Giroud’s ratings in the Italian newspapers:
Gazzetta dello Sport: 8
Corriere dello Sport: 7
Corriere della Sera: 8
Tuttosport: 8