Italy's convincing response keeps Turkey in crisis

Italy responded impressively after the defeat on the previous matchday and celebrated a convincing victory against Turkey in the Nations League. For Roberto Mancini it was also the first triumph since his return as coach of the Squadra Azzurra, with the first half dominating.

Early lead and dominant play

In front of a home crowd Italy started pressuringly and could have taken the lead early. Pio Esposito initially missed his goal, but Zeki Celik missed the near post, allowing Alessandro Bastoni to score from close range to make it 1-0. The goal gave the Azzurri extra confidence and launched a dominant spell.

As the game progressed, the quick combination play of the Italians caused big problems for the Turkish defence. Michael Kayode brought the ball into the final third, Altay Bayindir initially saved, but Davide Frattesi exploited the gap and increased the lead to 2-0. The second goal cemented the Squadra Azzurra's control.

Just a few minutes later Italy struck again. Kayode was involved in the action once more, this time scoring the 3-0 himself. After Sandro Tonali hit the post, Pio Esposito reacted quickest and headed the rebound for the fourth goal.

Italy seeks advantage in the Nations League against Turkey

Turkish resistance and final phase

After the break, persistent rain made the pitch more difficult, and Turkey found a better rhythm. Oguz Aydin dribbled down the right side and delivered a cross for Baris Yilmaz, who reduced the deficit to 1-3 from close range. For a brief moment Vincenzo Montella seemed to draw new hope.

Italy's answer, however, did not take long to arrive. Pio Esposito headed the rebound to make it 4-1, crowning a strong performance alongside his brother Sebastiano Esposito. The fourth goal finally stripped Turkey of its momentum.

In the closing stages the visitors tried again to build pressure, Baris Yilmaz did score, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Kerem Aktürkoglu and Arda Güler missed promising chances, leaving the clear final result unchanged. The defeat confirmed the crisis of the Turkish team.

Italy beats Turkey but Samuele Inacio stays on the bench: future uncertain

For Italy the first weeks under Roberto Mancini are a positive sign, especially the dominant first half showed the existing potential. Turkey, on the other hand, is experiencing a difficult start to its first Nations League season in League A, four defeats from five matches speak a clear language.