Italy loses to Belgium: Mancini: Losing the game could mean being booed.

Italy, nicknamed the "Azzurri," lost 0-2 to Belgium in their opening group stage match of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League, conceding goals in the first half of both games. Mancini stated that his team had chances to equalize in the second half but conceded due to mistakes, and added that being booed after the loss was normal.

In the 20th minute, De Bruyne played a through ball to Mika Holtz, who then entered the penalty area and fired a low shot into the net, giving Belgium a 1-0 lead.

In the 69th minute of the second half, De Cerrare chipped a pass to Lukebakio, who broke through to the edge of the penalty area before unleashing a long-range shot to give Belgium a 2-0 lead over Italy.

Ultimately, Italy lost 0-2 to Belgium at home.

Roberto Mancini, who is now Italy's head coach for the second time, said, "Belgium played better in the first half, and we took control in the second half and had a chance to equalize, but we conceded a second goal on the counter-attack due to our own mistakes. That's what happens in football."

"The first half performance was below expectations because Belgium played better, but the second half was different. Before the second goal conceded, the team played very well. We had four or five chances to equalize and at one point we pinned them in our own half, but Belgium is indeed a strong team."

Mancini also said, "Nobody is happy when we lose, but when the team loses a game, they may be booed."

Furthermore, Arsenal's Italian defender Carafiori said, "I saw a team that performed very well at certain stages. We've only just begun working with the new manager, but I'm not satisfied with some other aspects. We left too much space and conceded two goals that could have been avoided. However, we must try to see the positive side."

"We still have a lot to do, and the team has only just begun working with the new head coach, so let's wait and see."

Calafiori continued, "The boos from the fans are very upsetting because sometimes I can feel their passion. We must do better, we all know that, and change must begin with the next game."

Image source: Internet