Italy 2-2 Belgium: Leandro Trossard rescues point for Red Devils in dramatic Nations League clash

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·10 October 2024

Italy 2-2 Belgium: Leandro Trossard rescues point for Red Devils in dramatic Nations League clash

Azzurri architects of their own downfall in Rome

Italy threw a two-goal lead away to draw with Belgium in the Nations League.

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The Azzurri first looked to have picked up where they left off following last month’s productive international break in which they beat France and Israel, taking the lead within the opening 90 seconds through Andrea Cambiaso.

The Juventus full-back turned in a fine driven cross from Federico Dimarco, who helped tee up the second. Inter star Dimarco played a fizzing volleyed cross-field pass to Cambiaso, whose shot was saved but fell to Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui to expertly tuck in the rebound.

Luciano Spalletti’s side were in cruise control but their grip on the game slipped following a red card to Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini. Initially only booked for a challenge on Arthur Theate, a VAR review condemned Pellegrini to a dismissal.

Belgium quickly capitalised as Maxim De Cuyper curled in a response following a quick free-kick from Youri Tielemans.

The Red Devils, who came under a huge amount of criticism following Euro 2024 and were missing both Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, dominated after the interval and eventually drew level when Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard pounced on a header back across goal from Wout Faes.

Italy wanted a late penalty after Davide Frattesi saw his shot blocked with what he and his teammates believed was a hand but spoils were ultimately shared at the Stadio Olimpico.

The Italians host Israel on Monday, while Belgium entertain France.