Italy’s 1-0 win over Belgium was a masterclass in grit and determination, as Sandro Tonali’s early strike propelled the Azzurri into the Nations League quarterfinals.
The result left Belgium’s hopes in tatters, cementing their third-place finish and eliminating them from contention for the latter stages of the competition.
Despite Belgium’s spirited second-half comeback, Roberto Mancini’s men held their ground, showcasing a blend of defensive solidity and offensive precision.
The game got off to a fiery start as Italy immediately seized control, pressing high and dominating possession. By the 11th minute, they had their breakthrough.
Di Lorenzo, instrumental on the right wing, played a slick one-two with Barella before delivering a deflected cross into the box.
Sandro Tonali was perfectly positioned to capitalize, firing home from close range to give Italy a 1-0 lead.
Tonali’s goal was a testament to their aggressive start, and the Azzurri never looked back in the first half. Belgium, on the other hand, seemed shell-shocked, unable to string together meaningful attacks. The home crowd in Brussels could only watch as their team struggled to find its rhythm.
Belgium’s Second-Half Revival Falls Short
If the first half belonged to Italy, the second half was Belgium’s opportunity to fight back—and they did so with urgency. Domenico Tedesco’s side came out with a renewed sense of purpose, creating multiple chances to equalize.
Leandro Trossard and Lois Openda led the charge, forcing Gianluigi Donnarumma into critical saves early in the half.
The turning point nearly came in the 83rd minute when Wout Faes rose highest to meet a cross, only to see his header crash against the post.
The stadium held its breath as the ball ricocheted away, leaving Belgium fans agonizingly close to celebrating an equalizer. Moments later, Lukaku’s volley was expertly blocked by Di Lorenzo, underlining Italy’s defensive resilience.
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Donnarumma: Italy’s Imposing Last Line of Defense
Gianluigi Donnarumma was undoubtedly one of Italy’s heroes of the night. The goalkeeper was a towering presence, making crucial saves to deny Belgium’s best chances. His quick reflexes to stop Trossard’s low volley and Openda’s near-post effort kept Italy’s slender lead intact.
Donnarumma’s standout performance highlighted why he remains one of the best goalkeepers in international football. Time and again, he stepped up when his team needed him most, ensuring that Italy walked away with all three points.
For all their possession and second-half pressure, Belgium’s inability to find the back of the net proved to be their undoing.
Romelu Lukaku, usually a reliable goal scorer, struggled to convert opportunities. A golden chance to head home a cross in the 78th minute went begging as his attempt flew wide of the post.
The lack of clinical finishing extended beyond Lukaku. Defenders Faes and Engels both came close with headers, but it wasn’t enough to break down Italy’s disciplined backline. With just one win in their last seven games against the Azzurri, Belgium’s struggles against Italy continue to haunt them.
Mancini’s Tactical Mastery and Italy’s Depth
Roberto Mancini’s tactical decisions played a key role in securing the win. Italy’s 3-5-1-1 formation allowed them to control the midfield and exploit Belgium’s defensive vulnerabilities. The coach’s timely substitutions—bringing on Moise Kean, Destiny Udogie, and Manuel Locatelli—ensured fresh legs in the final stages, helping Italy see out the victory.
Kean almost doubled Italy’s lead late in the game with a powerful run, but his shot was well blocked by Faes. Retegui also had a chance to score, only to be denied by Belgium goalkeeper Koen Casteels.
Mancini’s faith in Italy’s younger players continues to pay dividends, with Tonali, Frattesi, and Dimarco all making significant contributions. The Azzurri’s squad depth and tactical flexibility have been key to their success in this Nations League campaign.
Belgium Face an Uphill Battle
The defeat leaves Belgium third in the group with four points, six behind France in second place. With just one game remaining, they are now out of contention for the quarterfinals and face a relegation playoff to remain in the competition’s top tier.
Belgium will look to salvage some pride in their final game against Israel, but their inability to capitalize on key moments against Italy will surely haunt them.
What’s Next for Italy?
Italy, now sitting comfortably at the top of Group B with 13 points, will face France in their final group game. A draw or win against the French would confirm their dominance in the group, but the Azzurri will likely approach the match with the same intensity that has characterized their campaign so far.
