Italy’s rebuild gathered another layer of conviction in Bologna on Monday night, as Roberto Mancini’s reshaped side beat Turkey 3-1 and moved into second place in the group ahead of France’s visit to Milan on 12 November.
The result extended a promising spell for the Azzurri, who had already defeated Vincenzo Montella’s Turkey team 4-1 the previous week and then earned a creditable 1-1 draw away to France at the Stade de France on Friday. Their 2-0 defeat to Belgium only ten days ago already feels more distant, even if Mancini still has much work ahead in his second spell as Italy coach.
Mancini again made widespread changes to his starting XI, with Gianluca Scamacca handed the central striker’s role. The forward justified the decision after 26 minutes, finishing right-footed after Antonio Vergara’s delivery and an aerial contest had sent the ball into his path. Vergara, another selection gamble from the coach, played an important part in the opening goal.
Italy controlled much of a match that did not always find a high tempo and offered relatively few clear chances. Gianluigi Donnarumma, who had been heavily involved against France three days earlier, faced a far quieter evening at home.
The goalkeeper was unable to prevent Turkey drawing level in the 61st minute, when Aral Simsir found the net. But Italy responded immediately. Riccardo Calafiori restored the lead three minutes later, powering home a header from a free-kick that left the Turkish goalkeeper with no chance.
Pio Esposito, introduced in the 56th minute and one of the standout young players of the international window, made certain of the result late on. The forward reacted sharply to score Italy’s third in the 87th minute, rewarding a side that had deserved to stay in front.
After four matches of Mancini’s new tenure, the direction is beginning to look clearer. The next test will be far more demanding: France arrive in Milan on 12 November, with Italy now holding second position in the group.
