Italy and Belgium shared the spoils in a captivating 2-2 draw at Stadio Olimpico, showcasing the intensity and excitement of the UEFA Nations League.
The Azzurri, riding high after two consecutive wins against France and Israel, looked set to secure another victory as they surged to a 2-0 lead within the first 24 minutes.
Goals from Andrea Cambiaso and Mateo Retegui had the home crowd roaring, but a red card for Lorenzo Pellegrini in the 40th minute changed the momentum.
Belgium took advantage, with De Cuyper striking before half-time and Trossard equalizing in the second half. Both sides had their chances, but the points were shared.
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Italy’s Fast Start and Early Dominance
Luciano Spalletti’s Italy began the game with determination, making their mark just 59 seconds in as Cambiaso found the back of the net.
The Azzurri’s quick transition play and aggressive approach paid off early, and they capitalized again in the 24th minute when Retegui tapped in a rebound from Cambiaso’s initial effort.
The home side seemed to be in full control, with an impressive xG of 1.47 in the first half, as they attempted six shots, three of which were on target.
The Turning Point: Pellegrini’s Red Card
The match’s dynamics shifted dramatically in the 40th minute when Lorenzo Pellegrini was shown a red card following a VAR review for a foul on Belgium’s Arthur Theate.
With Italy reduced to 10 men, Belgium sensed an opportunity. The Azzurri’s numerical disadvantage allowed Belgium to gain momentum, and they managed to pull a goal back through a powerful strike from De Cuyper before the half-time whistle.
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Belgium’s Second-Half Revival
Entering the second half, Belgium came out with renewed energy, pressing hard against the Italian defense.
They dominated possession with 65.4%, creating several chances but struggled with accuracy, managing only four shots on target from 12 attempts throughout the match.
Despite their efforts, it wasn’t until the 61st minute that Trossard found the equalizer, connecting with Faes’s header to level the score at 2-2.
Italy’s Resilience and Defensive Stand
Even with a man down, Italy remained resolute. Spalletti’s tactical adjustments saw his side hold their defensive shape, frustrating the Belgian attack.
The Azzurri’s xG of 1.59 highlighted their efficiency, as they made the most of their limited opportunities. Gianluigi Donnarumma, captaining the side, made key saves, and defenders like Bastoni and Calafiori put in solid performances to keep Belgium at bay.
Key Moments and Tactical Shifts
- Early Italian Breakthrough: Cambiaso’s lightning-fast goal set the tone for Italy’s initial dominance, putting Belgium on the back foot.
- Pellegrini’s Dismissal: The red card turned the tide, giving Belgium a numerical advantage and shifting the balance of play.
- Trossard’s Equalizer: Belgium’s persistence paid off when Trossard struck, but the Azzurri’s defense managed to prevent any further damage.
Italy remains unbeaten in their Nations League campaign, topping Group A2 with seven points. Their next challenge will be against Israel, where they’ll look to secure another win despite the absence of Pellegrini.
Belgium, now on four points, will face France in their next fixture. Tedesco’s side has shown resilience, but they need to improve their finishing to convert chances into wins.
For Italy, this draw is a testament to their character and resilience, maintaining their unbeaten streak even when down to 10 men.
Spalletti’s tactical acumen and his team’s determination will be crucial as they push for the quarter-finals. Belgium, on the other hand, will view this match as a missed opportunity.
Despite dominating the second half and playing against a reduced Italian side, they failed to secure the victory that could have boosted their standing in the group.
