Rome offered little patience for Italy’s new technical cycle as Belgium left the Stadio Olimpico with a 2-0 win, while the home crowd made its frustration clear at the final whistle.
Key takeaways
- Belgium defeated Italy 2-0 in Rome.
- The match was Italy’s first fixture under its new coaching set-up.
- Supporters at the Stadio Olimpico whistled the Italian players at half-time.
- The home side were also met with complaints from the stands after the match.
A difficult opening night in the capital
Italy’s attempt to begin a new chapter on home soil instead ended in a sobering defeat. Belgium established a two-goal lead at the Olimpico, where the Azzurra struggled to produce a convincing collective display.
The reaction in the stadium reflected the mood around the performance. As the interval arrived, Italy’s players were greeted by whistles from sections of the crowd, with Belgium already ahead.
Supporters voice their dissatisfaction
There was no softening in the response after the restart. Italy could not change the direction of the contest and Belgium completed a 2-0 away victory.
At full time, the Italian squad again faced reproaches from its supporters. The new coaching era has therefore begun with an uncomfortable night in the capital and an immediate demand for a stronger response.
