Mancini: Italy's Lack of Fluidity Expected After Turkiye Changes

Roberto Mancini anticipated Italy would lose some attacking flow after making nine substitutions in their 3-1 victory over Turkiye. He also expressed high hopes for Alessandro Romano's progress.

Mancini stated that underestimating Turkiye would have been the team's biggest error, a warning that proved valid as Vincenzo Montella's side controlled the first half. Following crucial saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma and significant Turkish possession, Gianluca Scamacca scored the opening goal from close range after a fortunate deflection and a volley.

Aral Simsir's well-deserved equalizer came as no surprise. However, Riccardo Calafiori's first international goal and a late tap-in from Pio Esposito secured the 3-1 win for Italy.

Mancini Expected Italy Struggles

“Despite the changes, fatigue was naturally present. We struggled initially, but the players did well to regain control, score again after the 1-1. It was a good game given it was the fourth in a short period,” Mancini told RAI Sport.

The starting lineup for this match differed from the one that played in Paris by nine players, which inevitably impacted the team's performance in Bologna.

“The only sure thing was that we would lose some of our attacking fluidity; this was fully expected and foreseen. We also had two players on yellow cards, and the referee seemed ready to book them again, so I substituted them.”

Cagliari midfielder Alessandro Romano, who returned to the squad, was deployed at times as a 'mezz'ala' instead of a primary playmaker.

“Romano can adapt to that role easily; he needs to play these matches to continue his development.”

Italy concludes this series of four Nations League fixtures within 11 days with clear progress since their initial 2-0 defeat to Belgium. They achieved a 4-1 win in Bursa against Turkiye, a 1-1 draw in France, and this evening's result in Bologna.

The national team will reconvene next month for their final two Group A matches: hosting France on November 12 and visiting Belgium on November 15.

“We must maintain this momentum. We will likely need to fight for our qualification spot in Belgium.”

Italy now sits second in Group A with seven points, behind France (10 points) but ahead of Belgium (6 points).