Italy strengthened their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 3–1 victory over Turkey at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium in Bologna, moving into second place in League A Group 1.
The hosts made the breakthrough in the 26th minute through Gianluca Scamacca. The striker gave Italy the advantage and ensured Roberto Mancini’s team went into the interval with a narrow lead.
Turkey remained competitive after the restart and found their response in the 61st minute. Aral Simsir struck to level the contest at 1–1, briefly putting the visitors in position to challenge for a valuable result away from home.
Italy, however, responded almost immediately. Just three minutes later, Riccardo Calafiori restored the advantage, converting after an assist from Nicolo Barella. The quick reply changed the direction of the contest and forced Turkey to chase another equaliser.
Mancini’s substitutions also played an important role as Italy looked to maintain control during the closing stages. Francesco Pio Esposito, introduced in the second half, eventually put the result beyond doubt in the 87th minute. His finish made it 3–1 and completed another important night for the Azzurri.
The result extended Italy’s impressive record against Turkey, with the Italians now unbeaten in 16 meetings between the two nations. It also followed their 4–1 away victory against the same opponents in September.
With four matches completed, Italy sit second in Group 1 with seven points. France lead the standings with 10, while Belgium have six.
Turkey remain bottom after losing all four of their Nations League fixtures so far.
For Italy, the victory represents another positive step in their campaign as attention now turns towards the final group matches in November.
