Roberto Mancini’s second debut as Italy’s head coach ended in disarray, as the Azzurri suffered a 2-0 defeat to Belgium in their UEFA Nations League opener at the Stadio Olimpico on Friday.
Mika Godts scored a brilliant individual goal to mark his first competitive appearance, before Dodi Lukebakio sealed the victory with a powerful strike in the second half. This match marked an encouraging start for new Belgium coach Mark van Bommel, who has taken over from Rudi Garcia after Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final run.
For Italy, this was another disappointing night. Mancini was re-appointed after the team’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup, following a defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-offs. Despite tens of thousands of empty seats at the Olimpico, the home fans booed loudly at full-time, reflecting the challenges that lie ahead for the four-time world champions.
Mancini’s squad featured a mix of familiar faces and newcomers. Playmaker Alessandro Romano made his debut after switching allegiance from Switzerland, while Nicolo Cambiaghi and Diego Coppola also made key contributions.
Belgium’s lineup included a milestone 125th cap for Kevin De Bruyne, while Godts earned his third cap after missing the recent World Cup. Charles De Ketelaere tested Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma early on, and despite Italy’s Moise Kean hitting the post, Belgium went ahead in the 20th minute after a defensive error allowed Godts to score.
Donnarumma was kept busy throughout the match, making a series of impressive saves to keep Italy in the game. However, after a strong initial push in the second half, Italy were caught on the break, with Lukebakio scoring from 25 yards.
Italy’s struggles were epitomised when substitute Giorgio Scalvini missed a close-range chance just minutes from time. Next up, Italy travel to Turkey, who lost 1-0 to France, while Belgium will host France on the same day.
