Dodi Lukebakio's substitute strike puts Belgium ahead in Rome on Tuesday

At the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the crowd roared as Dodi Lukebakio entered as an invaller for the Rode Duivels. Within minutes he surged from the half‑way line and unleashed a strike that flew past Donnarumma. The goal put Belgium in the lead as the Nations League clash unfolded on 25 September 2026.

Mika Godts opened the scoring in the 20th minute, tapping in a low finish after a swift counter‑attack. His strike gave the Belgians a 1‑0 advantage and set the tempo for the first half. The early lead forced Italy to chase the game from the outset.

Early breakthrough

The match saw several Geel cards, beginning with Nicolas Raskin in the 25th minute and followed by Diego Moreira three minutes later. Kevin De Bruyne was withdrawn for Hans Vanaken at the 58th minute, while the Italian side also made changes. These adjustments hinted at a tactical battle unfolding on both banks of the pitch.

Dodi Lukebakio replaced Diego Moreira at the 58th minute, immediately adding fresh impetus to Belgium’s attack. Six minutes later, he collected the ball on the halfway line, cut inside and fired a powerful shot beyond the outstretched Donnarumma, restoring a 0‑2 cushion. The strike was described as a ‘klasseflits’ by commentators.

Godts in starting XI, Lammens shines in Rome under Mark van Bommel

Lukebakio's decisive strike

The game also marked the official debut of Mark van Bommel as the Belgium national team manager. His early substitutions reflected a desire to inject energy and protect the lead. Van Bommel’s tactical tweaks, including the Lukebakio introduction, appeared to pay off quickly.

Italy responded by reshuffling their midfield, bringing on Davide Frattesi, Giorgio Scalvini and Daniel Maldini as the first‑half pressure waned. Francesco Pio Esposito was also introduced, while Gianluca Mancini received a Geel card in the 63rd minute after a clash with De Ketelaere. Despite the changes, the Italians could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.

Wider competition backdrop

The encounter formed part of the Nations League LIVE schedule, broadcast across multiple platforms including the Voetbal Programma and a special Formule 1‑style analysis segment. Tennis fans also tuned in, while viewers could follow updates on the Jupiler Pro League, Challenger Pro League, Champions League, Europa League and Conference League tables. The Meer section highlighted how the result impacts Belgium’s standing in the competition.

Dream debut: Van Bommel thanks Godts after historic win over Italy

With a 2‑0 lead secured, the Rode Duivels of België now hold a double‑goal advantage as they aim to maintain momentum in the group. The performance of the invaller Lukebakio and the early contribution of Godts suggest the Belgi side possesses depth to challenge for the Nations League title.