Belgium won 2-0 against Italy in a Nations League match held at the Stadio Olimpico, which was attended by 47,155 spectators. This match marked Italy's first appearance since failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time. Italy's coach Roberto Mancini returned to the bench after previously resigning in August 2023 to coach Saudi Arabia. Belgium's new coach Mark van Bommel celebrated a successful debut. Mika Godts scored the first goal for Belgium in the 20th minute, followed by Dodi Lukebakio's goal in the second half. Kevin De Bruyne assisted Godts' goal, which came after he maneuvered past three defenders. Italy's Gianluca Mancini and Diego Coppola were unable to stop the goals. Italy's lineup featured eight players from the World Cup qualifying campaign. The team will face Turkiye next and then travel to France before hosting Turkiye again in Bologna.
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Belgium Defeats Italy 2-0 in Nations League Opener
Belgium defeated Italy 2-0 in a Nations League match at the Stadio Olimpico, with goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio. This match was Italy's first since their World Cup qualifying failure, and it marked the debut of Belgium's new coach Mark van Bommel. Italy will next play against Turkiye.
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Paris Saint-Germain
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Roberto Mancini
Mark van Bommel
Kevin De Bruyne
Mika Godts
Dodi Lukebakio
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Italy crisis deepens as Belgium’s win stalls World Cup rebuild in Rome
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Belgium Defeats Italy 2-0 in Nations League Opener