Frattesi credits Mancini’s plan and Kayode’s towel for Italy win

Davide Frattesi celebrated Italy’s 4‑1 victory over Turkey in Bursa, confirming his ninth international goal and explaining how Roberto Mancini’s instructions and Michael Kayode’s unexpected towel on the touchline shaped the decisive rebound. The midfielder said the plan was rehearsed and that the long‑throw added a new dimension to the attack.

Eight changes after Belgium loss

The Azzurri made eight changes to the lineup that had suffered a 2‑0 defeat to Belgium on Friday. Coach Roberto Mancini aimed to deliver a concrete response and to launch a new era for the national side.

Italy dominated the first half with rapid one‑touch passing, creating several chances. Alessandro Bastoni, playing his first international match since the red card in the World Cup play‑off with Bosnia and Herzegovina, helped solidify the defence and contributed to the flow.

Rebound goal and Kayode’s surprise

In the second half Frattesi tapped in the rebound from Michael Kayode’s angled drive, a move Mancini had specifically instructed him to anticipate. Kayode then scored with his long throw, a tactic borrowed from Brentford’s Premier League play. Francesco Pio Esposito added a fourth goal to seal the win.

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The goal marked Frattesi’s ninth for the Nazionale and his first since October 2024, when he scored in a 4‑1 win over Israel. After leaving Inter, he has already netted three times in five Serie A matches for Lazio, underscoring his resurgence.

Mancini revealed he had planned the rebound goal, telling Frattesi to stay ready for any second‑chance opportunity. The midfielder said the coach’s advice never comes “out of thin air” and always carries a clear purpose.

Kayode’s unusually long throw has become a regular weapon for Brentford, and it required extra preparation on the rainy, muddy night in Bursa. Frattesi laughed that he was initially confused by seeing Kayode with a towel on the touchline, but admitted it proved effective.

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Reflecting on the win, Frattesi said Italy needed a concrete response to the Belgium defeat and hoped the performance would satisfy fans. He added that his own fire and motivation will drive him to contribute more goals this season.