Italy stumbles under Mancini against Van Bommel's new Belgium

At the Olympic Stadium in Rome, the Italy national team suffered a 0‑2 defeat to Belgium in Roberto Mancini's debut in charge of the 'Nazionale', with goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukébakio, after a minute of silence in tribute to Franco Baresi and Sandro Mazzola.

Italian journalist Riccardo Antimiani of the EFE agency reported that the Azzurra returned to play in front of its fans after the disaster of failing to qualify for the World Cup. According to reporter Marc Canosa, the new era under Mancini has not started in the best possible way.

The minute of silence was accompanied by a unified applause that echoed through the stadium, paying tribute to the recently deceased legends. Franco Baresi and Sandro Mazzola were remembered for their contributions to Italian football, and the ceremony sought to unite the fans before the start of the match.

Match development

Belgium dominated the start and, in the seventh minute, Kevin De Bruyne delivered a pinpoint pass to Charles De Ketelaere, who found the Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donarumma with no options. However, the first goal came when Mika Godts received a ball on the diagonal, beat several defenders and finished at the twentieth minute, beating Donarumma. Three minutes later, the Manchester City goalkeeper responded with a double save that kept the score at 1‑0.

Mancini returns to Italy's helm, faces Belgium at the Olympics

Italy created few chances in the first half and, after the break, Moise Kean struck a low cross that Lammens deflected with a great foot, preventing the equaliser. Belgian dominance continued and, in the sixty‑nine minute, substitute Dodi Lukébakio shot from outside the area and placed the second decisive goal. The match ended with the final 0‑2 result and the Italian fans left the stadium amid whistles.

Reactions and consequences

Italian supporters whistled as they left the dressing room, reflecting the frustration of a 'Nazionale' that cannot lift its head. Roberto Mancini's debut coincided with Belgium's first victory under Mark Van Bommel in this edition of the Nations League, which also began his tenure at the helm of the 'Red Devils'. The result highlights the ongoing issue that prevented Italy from qualifying for the World Cup.

Italy, Mancini backs youngsters ahead of Belgium in Rome decisive clash

Despite the setback, Mancini assures that the squad will work to correct the mistakes and seek recovery in the upcoming fixtures. Belgian coach Mark Van Bommel, for his part, celebrated the three first points earned and looked optimistically to the next matches.