Roberto Mancini expressed that Italy’s first-half display against Belgium fell “below expectations,” which ultimately affected their performance in the Nations League match.
In Mancini’s first game back in charge, Italy suffered a 2-0 defeat at Stadio Olimpico, with goals scored by Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio on either side of the halftime break.
This marks only the second time in the past 40 years that Italy has lost at home, conceding at least two goals while failing to score, the previous instance being a 2-0 friendly loss to Croatia in August 2006.
Italy posted 1.5 expected goals (xG) in total, but managed only 0.3 in the first half, while Belgium recorded 2.5 of their 2.7 xG before the break.
Gianluigi Donnarumma made six key saves in an effort to spark a comeback for Italy, but Senne Lammens also registered six saves to maintain Belgium’s lead.
While Mancini recognized improvements in the second half, he acknowledged that the team’s first 45 minutes were inadequate.
“Belgium was better in the first half, we took control in the second and came close to equalizing, but then we conceded following an error in a counter-attack. That’s how football goes,” Mancini remarked to RAI Sport.
“The first half did not meet expectations, as Belgium was superior; however, the same cannot be said for the second half.”
“The team performed well until conceding the second goal. We had four or five opportunities to level the score and put them under pressure, but Belgium is a strong team.”
FT.#ITABEL #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/vauuRDEwNh
— Italy (@Azzurri_En) September 25, 2026
After failing to qualify for the last three World Cups, Italy faced jeers from fans as they left the pitch in Rome.
Riccardo Calafiori felt “hurt” by the crowd’s reaction and encouraged his teammates to focus on the positives despite the loss.
“It hurt because I could sense the crowd’s passion at times. We know we need to improve, starting with the next match,” said Calafiori, who recovered possession eight times and created three opportunities.
“I saw glimpses of a good team. We’ve just begun working with our new coach, but there are aspects that need improvement; we left gaps and conceded two avoidable goals. We must focus on the positive elements.”
“There’s significant work ahead; we’re only just starting with a new coach, so time will tell.”
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer fans as it highlights Italy’s struggles, particularly after failing to qualify for recent World Cups. It raises concerns about their future performance and the potential for a revitalization under Mancini, sparking hope for a resurgence in Italian football.
Source: www.soccernews.com
