Italy travel to Bursa with the first pressure point of Roberto Mancini’s new cycle already in view: a response after Saturday’s defeat to Belgium and a result that keeps the Azzurri clear of an early Nations League relegation battle.
A difficult opening demands an answer
The Azzurri face Vincenzo Montella’s Turkey at 20:45 at Bursa’s Timsah Arena, part of the Atatürk Spor Kompleksi. The stadium’s crocodile-inspired design provides a striking setting for a match carrying weight for both sides after the opening round.
- Italy began Group A with defeat against Belgium.
- Turkey also have no points, having lost their first match to France.
- France, Belgium, Italy and Turkey make up the group.
- Both teams are seeking their first points and their first win of the campaign.
For Italy, the concern is not merely the immediate setback. A second poor result would make the fight to retain a place in the top division of the Nations League considerably more demanding, particularly in a group containing France and Belgium.
Italy’s away record offers encouragement
Mancini’s side arrive in Turkey with evidence that they have generally handled Nations League group-stage trips well. Italy have lost only one of their past 10 away matches in the group phase of the competition, recording seven victories and two draws.
That sequence also includes four consecutive away wins. It is a useful record to bring into Bursa, although the opening loss has ensured that past results alone will not lessen the importance of the evening.
The next step in Mancini’s rebuild
The trip is the next test for a national team attempting to settle under Mancini while navigating a competition in which every early point can affect the final shape of the group. Italy need to put the Belgian defeat behind them, but they also need to establish a stronger position before the schedule becomes more unforgiving.
Turkey, coached by Montella, have the same basic need after their loss to France. The match therefore brings together two teams starting from zero, with the home side looking to use Bursa’s atmosphere and Italy seeking the composed away performance that has so often served them well in this tournament.
How to follow Turkey v Italy
- The match is scheduled to kick off at 20:45.
- In Italy, Rai Uno will show the game live and free to air.
- RaiPlay will provide live streaming.
- Sky Sport channels will carry a delayed broadcast from midnight.
