Nations League: Italy beaten by Belgium in Rome
Italy began their Nations League campaign with a 2-0 defeat against Belgium on Friday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, according to several media outlets.
Italy got off to a bad start in their Nations League campaign. On Friday, at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the Nazionale lost 2-0 to Belgium, as reported by Globo, ANSA and Gazeta Esportiva, among others.
A defeat marked by two Belgian goals
The Belgian goals were scored by Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio, according to Metrópoles and Gazeta Esportiva. Both media outlets describe these strikes as "golaços". The match, which took place in the Italian capital, saw the visitors win without Italy managing to reduce the deficit.
An Italian team under pressure
According to Gazeta Esportiva, the performance of the team led by Roberto Mancini was met with whistles from the Roman crowd. The Brazilian outlet says this defeat "increases the pressure" on the Italian coach. Meanwhile, t-online describes an Italian team that was "weak" against the Belgians.
Contrasting reactions depending on the source
Italian media, via ANSA, reported the defeat live, with headlines that evolved as the match progressed: first 0-0, then 0-1, and finally 0-2. Globo speaks of an "ordeal" for Italy, who thus begin their Nations League campaign with a defeat. No statements from players or coaches have been reported by the available sources.
Next fixture
No information on Italy's or Belgium's next match was provided in the report. This defeat marks the first result of the competition for both teams.
