Mancini scores a brace on debut against Belgium: channel and streaming

Friday 25 September 2026, at 20:45, Italy faces Belgium in the Nations League, broadcast free‑to‑air on Rai 1 and streamed on Rai Play; it is Roberto Mancini's first assignment in his second stint in charge of the Italian national team, after yet another World Cup disappointment, with 34 called‑up players and nine debutants.

TV Channel and streaming options

The live broadcast will be on TV CHANNEL Rai 1, with simultaneous streaming on Rai Play, accessible from smartphones, tablets, PCs and desktop computers. Viewers will also be able to follow it via the digital platform, ensuring national coverage.

The four matches of Group A will take place over eleven days; the Azzurri have been drawn in the same group with Belgium, Turkey and France. The schedule foresees four fixtures in eleven days, with Italy opening the campaign against Belgium.

The probable Italian 4‑3‑4 starts with Donnarumma; Kayode, Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Romano, Barella, Tonali; Zaniolo, Pio Esposito, Raspadori. The chosen formation is the 4‑3‑3, with Zaniolo and Raspadori on either side of Pio Esposito.

German referee Siebert will officiate Italy‑Belgium in Nations League

Belgium starts with Lammens in goal, a defence made up of Castagne, De Winter, Debast and De Cuyper; midfield of Tielemans and Lavia; attack of Godts, Lukebakio, De Bruyne and De Ketelaere, led by coach van Bommel. The appointed referee is Siebert, of German nationality.

Mancini has chosen to field both Kayode and Romano from the first minute, betting on young faces to revitalize the national team. The decision to include nine debutants underscores the desire to refresh the squad.

Van Bommel aims to dominate the Nations League against Italy

With 34 call‑ups, including nine debutants, Italy hopes to answer the criticism and kick‑start its season in the Nations League. The match represents Mancini’s second stint’s first step towards regaining the national team’s confidence. ITALY aims to demonstrate its progress.