Frattesi reveals Mancini's plan and Kayode's launch
Davide Frattesi said he hadn't scored for Italy in a long time, but confirmed that Roberto Mancini had set up the rebound goal in the 4-1 victory over Turkey, played in Bursa on September 28, 2026. Frattesi also revealed Michael Kayode's secret role.
Eight changes and the difference against Belgium
The Azzurri made eight changes compared to the line‑up that had lost 2-0 to Belgium (Belgium) on Friday (Friday), showing a clear evolution between the two performances. Despite the changes, the difference in play was evident.
The scorers of the victory in Turkey
Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring in his first international match after the red card in the World Cup (World Cup) playoff against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Davide Frattesi, Michael Kayode and Francesco Pio Esposito completed the tally, taking Italy to four goals.
Frattesi scored his ninth goal for the national team, the first since October 2024, when he had already secured a 4-1 win over Israel. After leaving Inter, he found form at Lazio, with three goals in five Serie A matches.
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“I really wanted this, because I hadn't scored for Italy in a long time,” Frattesi told Sky Sport Italy, adding that his motivation was born after last season's disappointment.
Roberto Mancini had told Frattesi to be ready for the rebound, and the midfielder collected the ball after Kayode's angled shot. “The coach told me to be ready for the rebound, it's never advice without reason,” Frattesi commented.
Michael Kayode delivered an exceptional long ball, already used by Brentford in the Premier League, and his presence confused the opponents. “I was really confused when I saw him with a towel on the sideline… it was a good tactic,” Frattesi laughed.
Rain in Bursa forces Azzurri to wake up in hotel before Nations League
The Azzurri dominated possession, moving the ball quickly with one‑touch passes, as Frattesi observed: “I've known Raspadori and Pio Esposito for years, the movements came easily.”