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Roberto Mancini’s return was meant to bring hope back to Italy. Instead, it ended with boo s, frustration and a painful 2-0 defeat to Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico.
Goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio gave Belgium a deserved UEFA Nations League victory and turned Mancini’s first night back into an immediate reality check.
Italy wanted a fresh beginning.
Belgium gave them another reminder of how much work still needs to be done.
Godts Silences the Olimpico
Belgium looked sharper from the start and took advantage of Italy’s nervous defending.
Kevin De Bruyne helped open the move before Godts drove into the penalty area and finished past Gianluigi Donnarumma, scoring his first senior international goal.
The goal changed the atmosphere instantly.
Italy struggled to find rhythm, while Belgium continued to look dangerous whenever they broke forward.
Donnarumma was forced into important saves to keep the hosts in the contest before half-time.
Italy Fight Back — Then Belgium Strike Again
There was finally more urgency from Italy after the break.
Moise Kean tested Senne Lammens, and the Azzurri pushed higher as the crowd sensed a possible comeback.
For a few minutes, Belgium were under real pressure.
Then came the killer blow.
Substitute Dodi Lukebakio finished a rapid counterattack with a powerful low strike, doubling Belgium’s advantage and silencing the stadium.
Italy kept pushing, and Giorgio Scalvini hit the crossbar, but there was no way back.
Boos Greet Mancini’s Return
The final whistle brought a reaction Mancini will not forget.
Sections of the Olimpico crowd voiced their frustration after watching Italy fall short once again on a big night.
Mancini remains one of the most successful Italy coaches of recent years, but his second spell has started with a warning.
Belgium looked more composed, more dangerous and far more ruthless when the important moments arrived.
For Belgium, it was a statement victory.
For Italy, it was a brutal opening night.
And for Mancini, the comeback story will have to wait.
