Football Italia reports that Roberto Mancini’s second Italy era began with a 2-0 home defeat to Belgium in Nations League action on 25 September 2026. It was Italy’s first match back under Mancini since he left in 2023, and it came in a group that also includes France and Turkiye.
Belgium scored first after Alessandro Romano’s misplaced pass was intercepted, with Kevin De Bruyne releasing Mika Godts to finish past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy pushed for an equaliser after the break, but Dodi Lukebakio then punished them on the counter with a bending finish from outside the area.
The result leaves Italy with an uphill task in the group, while Belgium took a notable away win in Mark van Bommel’s first game in charge. The report also noted a late flashpoint between Donnarumma and Romelu Lukaku after the final whistle, with both booked.
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Nations League | Italy 0-2 Belgium: Mancini return begins with new disaster
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Football Italia published the match report on 25 September 2026. This is a single-publisher account of the game and should be treated as that outlet’s reporting rather than independent confirmation.
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Latest update: Italy lost 2-0 at home to Belgium in Mancini’s first match back in charge.
