Mancini backs Romano and Calafiori for the match against Belgium

Roberto Mancini has set the lineup for his second debut in charge of the National Team, selecting Alessandro Romano as coach and Gianluca Calafiori on the left flank. The Nations League match against Belgium will be played on Friday at 20:45 at the Olimpico in Rome.

Tactical choice and lineup

In the 4‑3‑3 formation, the defensive centre is confirmed with Gianluca Mancini, while the bench remains open for Scalvini and Coppola, two options waiting to prove their worth. On the right the choice is uncertain between Kayode and Di Lorenzo, with the latter starting up front. In midfield the certainties remain Barella, Tonali and captain Donnarumma, all guaranteed starters.

In attack, Pio Esposito fights for a starting spot against Kean, while Scamacca remains on the bench. The offensive trio should include Raspadori and Zaniolo, who have priority over Maldini and Vergara, both destined to come on during the match.

Media coverage and context

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Mancini weighs Pio and Kean duo for the match against Belgium

The match falls within a particularly tough Nations League group, with Turkey and France alongside Belgium. The primary goal is to avoid the last place, which would mean relegation to League B.

The schedule sets the kickoff at 20:45 on Friday, with the Olimpico in Rome as the venue of the clash. The Azzurri side, already a regular in the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana, aims to demonstrate its solidity also in Formula E and other related sports.

With the announced lineup, the National Team prepares for a new chapter, hoping to turn the certainties into concrete results. The upcoming match will be followed by all football fans, with constant updates via the News and Live platforms.