Manager hails Arsenal left‑back as leader after emotional debut goal

Riccardo Calafiori rose highest to head a free‑kick in the 64th minute on Monday, giving Italy the lead over Turkey and sparking an emotional night for the Arsenal left‑back.

Match context and Italy's Nations League push

Turkey had equalised three minutes earlier, but Calafiori’s header restored Italy’s advantage, and the Azzurri went on to win 3‑1. The victory leaves Italy second in their Nations League group with two games remaining, keeping them on track for the quarter‑finals.

Calafiori's personal milestone

The Arsenal player, a key starter for Italy when fit, had never scored for his country before Monday night. He described the venue – the home ground of his former club Bologna – as especially meaningful, noting it was where he made his debut and now netted his first international goal.

Nations League in Bologna: Mancini guides Italy towards revival

Roberto Mancini, the manager, praised Calafiori in the post‑match press conference, calling him a leader not only intellectually but also technically and physically. “Calafiori is a leader,” Mancini said, adding that the player’s qualities extend beyond his defensive duties.

A Photo captured the moment Calafiori rose to meet the cross, and another Photo taken by the manager highlighted the player’s celebration, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

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

The result caps an international break that began with fan boos, now ending on a much brighter note for Italy. With two wins over Turkey and a respectable draw away to France, the Azzurri are poised to continue their push for the Nations League quarter‑finals.