Italy recorded its first draw in the Nations League after previous away victories against France and Israel, stumbling to a 2-2 result at home in the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, following a match that showcased two distinct halves.
In the first half, Italy was dominant: taking the lead on their very first attack with Cambiaso, the Azzurri continued to control the game, pushing Belgium back until Retegui doubled the score to 2-0 in the 24th minute, setting the stage for what seemed like a rout. However, with Italy firmly in control, the match took a negative turn when Pellegrini received a red card in the 40th minute for an unnecessary foul in midfield. Following the resulting free kick, Belgium quickly found the net with De Cuyper, reopening the contest.
In the second half, the national team tried to hold on despite being a man down but ultimately succumbed again to Trossard’s strike in the 61st minute, putting them at risk of losing the match as Belgium continued to press forward with renewed confidence.
In the end, a draw seems to be the fairest result based on the play observed on the field, yet there remains disappointment for having squandered two points and a clear, deserved victory that had been secured as long as the teams were even in numbers.
