Azzurri Beaten By Belgium In Nations League Opener

Italy's new Nations League campaign began with a 2-0 home defeat to Belgium in Rome. Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio scored for the visitors as Roberto Mancini's second spell in charge of the Azzurri got off to a difficult start.

Italy were beaten 2-0 by Belgium in their opening UEFA Nations League match, giving Roberto Mancini a difficult start to his second spell as Azzurri manager.

The defeat at the Stadio Olimpico was Italy's first competitive match since their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and provided an immediate test of Mancini's plans for a rebuilt squad.

Godts Gives Belgium The Lead

Belgium opened the scoring through Mika Godts, who finished a quick attacking move to put the visitors ahead.

Italy struggled to turn their possession into a breakthrough, while Belgium looked dangerous when they were able to transition quickly.

The goal gave Mark van Bommel's side an advantage that they protected effectively for much of the match.

Lukebakio Doubles The Advantage

Dodi Lukebakio added Belgium's second goal after the break, extending the visitors' advantage and leaving Italy with a difficult task.

Despite Italy's efforts to respond, Belgium maintained their defensive organisation and protected their clean sheet through the remainder of the match.

Lammens Keeps Italy Out

Belgium's goalkeeper Senne Lammens also played an important role in the result.

The goalkeeper made several important saves as Italy increased the pressure after half-time, helping Belgium preserve their advantage and finish the match without conceding.

Mancini's New Italy Face Early Test

The match represented the beginning of Mancini's second spell as Italy manager, with the former coach returning after the disappointment of the World Cup qualification campaign.

Mancini had selected a heavily refreshed squad for the Nations League, including nine players receiving their first senior call-ups. He had stressed the importance of giving younger players opportunities while rebuilding the national team.

The defeat therefore provides an early indication of the scale of the rebuilding task facing the Azzurri.

Belgium Make Winning Start

For Belgium, the victory offered an encouraging beginning under Van Bommel.

The Red Devils arrived in Rome after reaching the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals and now have an important Nations League victory to add to their recent competitive results.

Their ability to withstand Italy's pressure and score at key moments ultimately proved decisive.

Italy Must Respond Quickly

The Azzurri do not have much time to dwell on the defeat, with a demanding Nations League schedule ahead.

Mancini's team must now use the remaining fixtures to develop the new squad, improve their attacking efficiency and build greater consistency.

The 2-0 defeat does not determine the outcome of Italy's campaign, but it has provided an early warning that the rebuilding process will require significant work.

For Belgium, meanwhile, the victory in Rome represents an important opening statement under their new manager.