In a pulsating UEFA Nations League encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy surrendered a two-goal advantage as Belgium fought back to secure a 2-2 draw on Thursday evening. The result leaves Italy atop League A Group 2, while Belgium salvaged a crucial point in their campaign.
Italy started the match in blistering fashion, taking the lead after just two minutes. Federico Dimarco’s dangerous cross caused chaos in the Belgian defense, with Andrea Cambiaso capitalizing to poke home from close range after Maxim De Cuyper’s near own-goal was initially saved by Koen Casteels.
The Azzurri doubled their advantage in the 25th minute through Mateo Retegui. A sweeping attack saw Cambiaso’s effort parried by Casteels, only for Retegui to calmly slot home the rebound, putting Italy firmly in control.
However, the game’s complexion changed dramatically five minutes before halftime. Lorenzo Pellegrini received a straight red card following a VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Arthur Theate, reducing Italy to ten men.
Belgium immediately capitalized on their numerical advantage. A clever free-kick routine in the 42nd minute saw Maxim De Cuyper whip a superb effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing the Red Devils back into the contest before the break.
The second half saw Belgium press for an equalizer, which arrived in the 62nd minute. Wout Faes’ header from a corner was skillfully redirected by Leandro Trossard, who poked the ball into the near corner to level the scores.
Trossard emerged as the standout performer for Belgium, playing a pivotal role in both goals. The forward was at the heart of Belgium’s attacking play, registering 57 touches, making two key passes, and contributing defensively with two tackles and three duels won.
Despite being a man down, Italy managed to weather the Belgian storm in the closing stages, holding on for a point that keeps them at the summit of their group. The Azzurri will look to maintain their unbeaten start when they face Israel on Monday.
For Belgium, the comeback draw provides a significant boost to their Nations League campaign. Domenico Tedesco’s side will aim to build on this result when they host France in their next fixture on Monday.
