Turkey return home with the sting of a narrow defeat to France still fresh, while Italy arrive after a bruising evening against Belgium. Their meeting on 28 September offers both sides an early chance to steady themselves in the second round of the Nations League group stage, with neither nation yet on the board for a win.
The match is scheduled for 12:45pm in central Mexico time and will be shown on Sky Sports.
Turkey seek a response in front of their own supporters
Turkey gave Zinedine Zidane’s France a difficult opening spell in their first group match and might have changed the tone of the contest as early as the fourth minute. Ferdi Kadioglu struck the post with a fierce effort, setting the hosts on an ambitious course against a French side that needed Mike Maignan’s interventions to remain composed.
France gradually took control of the danger areas. Kylian Mbappé sent an effort narrowly wide in the 17th minute, before Ryan Cherki was presented with a clear opening shortly before half-time. The breakthrough came nine minutes after the interval, when Michael Olise found Mbappé and the forward scored the only goal of the game.
Turkey’s difficult close was compounded by the late dismissal of goalkeeper Ugurcan Çakir. Back in familiar surroundings, they now have an opportunity to turn an encouraging but fruitless display into something more substantial.
Italy rebuild after Belgium setback
For Italy, the journey begins after a 2-0 loss to Belgium that made Roberto Mancini’s new spell in charge an unhappy start. Belgium exposed uncertainty in the Italian defensive line during the first half, with Mika Godts scoring after 20 minutes following a lapse at the back.
Italy remained in the contest until Dodi Lukébakio extended Belgium’s advantage in the 69th minute. The winger carried the ball in from the flank towards the edge of the penalty area, worked past two defenders and drove a low angled finish beyond Gianluigi Donnarumma.
So the fixture brings together two teams shaped by opening-night disappointment: Turkey, frustrated after matching France for long stretches, and Italy, seeking firmer foundations after Belgium found space too easily. In this corner of the Nations League, the second matchday already carries the feel of a necessary correction.
