Nations League: Italy bounce back against Turkey; France win in Belgium

Italy bounced back in style on Monday, defeating Turkey 4-1 in rain-soaked conditions to revive their Nations League campaign. Meanwhile, France edged Belgium 1-0 in Brussels with a late winner from Michael Olise. Other matches saw Sweden triumph over Poland 3-1, Bosnia and Herzegovina overcome Romania 4-2, and Northern Ireland hold Hungary to a goalless draw.

Italy's win in Bursa placed them back in contention in Nations League Group A1, while France's victory in Brussels marked Zinédine Zidane’s second win as France coach. As both teams struggled to convert early opportunities, Olise broke the deadlock in the 88th minute, darting through the Belgian defense and finding the net with a precise shot inside the post.

This result followed a disappointing start for Italy under coach Roberto Mancini, who faced jeers after Italy's initial loss to Belgium. However, Italy impressed in the first half against Turkey, quickly establishing a lead with a series of errors from the hosts. Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir encountered difficulties with low cross-shots, resulting in two early goals. The first came from Alessandro Bastoni, who capitalized on a deflected cross to net into the roof of the goal. A second goal followed when Davide Frattesi scored after Bayindir parried another shot.

Turkey managed to give their fans hope shortly after halftime when Baris Yilmaz scored, taking advantage of Gianluigi Donnarumma being drawn out of position. However, Italy responded swiftly, as Pio Esposito secured another goal just minutes later, nodding in a rebound after his teammate hit the post.

Esposito dedicated his goal to his grandmother, stating, "I dedicate today’s goal to my grandmother, who is going through a difficult time." He was part of a squad that also saw his brother Sebastiano, making his Italy debut.

Montella, Turkey's coach, faced increasing pressure following their World Cup disappointment. With Italy's confidence restored, Mancini looked forward to their next match against France at the Stade de France on Friday, indicating a renewed optimism for the team. “We’ll try to recover and be ready for the match in Paris. I’m confident. We’ve got young players who are fresh and ready,” he remarked.

In League B, Sweden took their second win in Group 4, defeating Poland despite a resilient effort from the opposition. They extended their lead in their match after a striking goal from Victor Gyokeres sealed it. Bosnia and Herzegovina also claimed a victory currently placing them in a solid position in their group.

Overall, the Nations League matches on Monday offered a mix of thrilling performances and a pivotal turnaround for Italy in their quest for success.