Italy Lose To Belgium At The Stadio Olimpico In Rome
Italy were beaten 0-2 by Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome in their opening match of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League (Group A), last night. Roberto Mancini, entrusted with the job of regaining Italy’s lost footballing mojo, faced a bitter defeat at home.
A Fresh Belgian Team & A Brilliant Kevin de Bruyne
Team Belgium wore a fresh look. The future could well be seen. Young players, hungry for success with huge intent, impressed all and sundry, held together by the veteran and Belgian legend Kevin de Bruyne.
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Mika Godts Drills It In For Belgium’s First
The Belgians moved superbly on the field and in the 20th minute a fine pass from de Bruyne found Mika Godts in striking distance. The 21-year-old PSG winger made no mistake coming from the left, dribbled past a coupled and struck like a seasoned campaigner to give Belgium the lead.
Italy Raise The Tempo But Can’t Score
The Italians were woken up really with Cambiagi, Kean and Esposito cranking up the pace. Kean hit the post too, but the goal didn’t arrive. Cambiagi in particular was brilliant for Italy, but his hardwork refused to pay.
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An Incredible Lammens Denies The Italians
Senne Lammens guarding the Belgian Goal was incredible to say the least. He stretched to his left and to his right, but stopped everything that was thrown at him. It was one of Lammens best nights for Belgium. He was simply superb.
Lukebakio Sinks Italy With A Ripper
Lukebakio, the Benfica forward, then arrived on the scene in the 57th minute and struck immediately. His left-footed ripper in the 60th minute was a treat to watch. The ball struck with fierce power, curled in ever so slightly to beat Donnarumma’s outstretched right hand. It was indeed a spectacular finish from Lukebakio.
Italy Keep Trying But Are Wasteful In front Of Goal
Italy kept pressing and had several opportunities to score, but either the finish wasn’t there or Lamnens just came in the way. Calafiori also played well for the Italians, but just couldn’t score. Italy missed more than was expected, leaving Roberto Mancini frustrated in the end.
Van Bommel’s Belgium Eventually Win It 2-0
Van Bommel’s Team eventually won the battle 2-0. The young guns in Mika Godts, De Ketelaere, Ngoy and Lammens, with de Bruyne in the centre, were the chief architects of the victory. Lukebakio’s goal too was simply outstanding.
The return fixture between Belgium and Italy is scheduled for November 15, 2026 in Belgium.
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