Mancini’s Italy return ends in Nations League defeat to Belgium

Roberto Mancini’s return as Italy coach began with a 2-0 defeat by Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on Friday, as a frustrated home crowd booed the four-time world champions at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico. Belgium took the lead in the 20th minute through Mika Godts, who marked his first competitive international appearance with a solo goal. The forward cut inside two defenders and finished after Italy lost possession through a loose pass by 20-year-old debutant Alessandro Romano.

Dodi Lukebakio doubled Belgium’s advantage midway through the second half, driving an effort into the bottom corner from 25 yards after the visitors caught Italy on the counter-attack. The result gave Mark van Bommel a winning start in his first match as Belgium’s international coach. Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was heavily involved before the break, making a double save to deny Charles De Ketelaere and Nicolas Raskin before stopping another attempt from Godts.

Italy also survived several other Belgian attacks, but was unable to convert its own opportunities. Moise Kean went close for the hosts when he put a finish into the side netting from a cross by Nicolo Cambiaghi. After half-time, Belgium goalkeeper Senne Lammens kept out efforts from Kean and Pio Esposito, helping his side preserve its lead.

Italy’s struggles in front of goal continued late on when substitute Giorgio Scalvini lifted a shot over the bar from close range. Thousands of seats were empty at the stadium, while loud boos greeted the final whistle. Mancini was reappointed after Italy’s play-off defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina, a result that marked the team’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup.

Italy next travel to Turkey, who lost 1-0 to France in their opening match. Belgium will host France in its next fixture.