Pio and Sebastiano Esposito join the blue trident in the Nations League

On the evening of Monday 28 September 2026, the second matchday of the Nations League saw Italy line up an unprecedented attack, with brothers Pio and Sebastiano Esposito flanking the offensive trio under the guidance of coach Mancini.

Official line‑ups

The Turkish coach Montella opted for a 3‑4‑2‑1: Bayindir; Celik, Demiral, Bardakci; Aydin, Ozcan, Kokcu, Elmali; Guler, Uzun; Yilmaz. Italy, on the other hand, starts with a 4‑3‑3: Donnarumma; Kayode, Scalvini, Bastoni, Ruggeri; Frattesi, Tonali, Fagioli; Raspadori, Pio Esposito, Sebastiano Esposito, with Mancini at the helm.

Mancini refreshed the defence, inserting Kayode on the right, Scalvini and Bastoni in the centre, the latter returning from suspension, and Ruggeri on the left, all in front of goalkeeper Donnarumma.

The midfield unit features Frattesi, Tonali and Fagioli, the latter paired with Frattesi, while the attack surprises with the two Esposito brothers and Raspadori.

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Among those present at Coverciano are ten Azzurri; three of them were starters against Belgium – Barella, Mancini and Coppola – a sign of continuity in the squad.

The match was broadcast live on Sportmediaset with Highlights, Video and Photo, placed in the Nations League Football section, accompanied by content from Tennis, Drive, MotoGP, Pressing, XXL, News, Coppa Italia, Supercoppa Italiana, Formula, Sport, Podcast, Lifestyle, Scudetti, Area, Help, FAQ, Info, Cookie Policy and Set.

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The decision to field the Esposito brothers together represents a tactical gamble that could give Italy a new offensive impetus in the decisive phase of the Nations League.