Mancini sees Pio Esposito reaching Vieri and Toni's level within two years

Pio Esposito's decisive goal sealed the 3‑1 win over Turkey, giving the Azzurri their second consecutive victory after overturning the first knockout against Belgium in the Nations League debut match, leaving Roberto Mancini's new Italy unbeaten.

Details of the victory over Turkey

The second victory in a few days against Turkey under Vincenzo Montella arrived tonight, with a final 3‑1 signed by Scamacca, Calafiori and Pio Esposito. Esposito's goal erased the Turks' temporary equaliser, scored by Simsir.

With these three points the Azzurri remain in the wake of Zidane's France, at +3 on Mancini's national team, which however has risen alone to second place, pulling ahead of Belgium in third and sitting at -1 from Italy.

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The Azzurri's next matches will be on November 12 and 15, respectively against France and Belgium, providing further opportunities to consolidate the position.

During the post‑match press conference, Italy's head coach Roberto Mancini praised Pio Esposito, stating: “Within a couple of years PIO can easily become a centre‑forward who makes the team play, like Vieri, Toni or players of their level.”

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Mancini added that, in terms of characteristics, Esposito resembles Toni more, but with his technical qualities he already has the foundations to truly become a great striker.