Italy’s loss to Belgium leaves Mancini’s return under scrutiny
Italian newspapers questioned the team’s identity and preparation after Belgium won 2–0 in Rome.
Roberto Mancini’s return as Italy coach began with a 2–0 home defeat to Belgium in a Nations League match on 25 September. Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio scored for Belgium at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.
The result drew sharp criticism from Italian newspapers, which questioned whether the team had a clear identity, adequate tactical preparation or a response to Belgium’s play.
La Gazzetta dello Sport said Italy appeared confused and short of ideas, while arguing Belgium’s performance was amplified by Italy’s shortcomings. Corriere dello Sport described the side as anxious and paralysed by the prospect of another defeat.
Tuttosport singled out goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and winger Nicolò Cambiaghi as the only Italy players it believed emerged with credit. Donnarumma limited the margin, while Cambiaghi created some of Italy’s few chances, the paper reported.
The Yahoo Sports roundup also reported that Mancini acknowledged Italy’s poor first half. The supplied account of La Stampa’s assessment is incomplete.
