Roberto Mancini secured his first victory since returning as Italy manager as the Azzurri produced a 4-1 win over Türkiye in the UEFA Nations League on Monday.
Italy had opened their campaign with a 2-0 defeat by Belgium three days earlier, making the trip to Bursa an important opportunity for Mancini’s revamped squad to respond.
The 61-year-old returned to the Italy bench last month after Gennaro Gattuso’s departure. Mancini previously managed the national team from 2018 to 2023, leading them to the Euro 2020 title before leaving his position.
Against Türkiye, Italy quickly established control and went ahead through Alessandro Bastoni in the ninth minute. The Inter defender converted from a corner to give the visitors an early advantage. Davide Frattesi doubled Italy’s lead after Michael Kayode’s effort was saved, with the midfielder reacting quickly to fire the rebound into the net. Kayode then marked his international debut with Italy’s third goal. The Brentford defender collected a pass from Pio Esposito, moved inside and finished to put the Azzurri three goals ahead.
Türkiye responded early in the second half through Barış Alper Yılmaz, who scored his sixth international goal to give the hosts some hope. Italy, however, quickly restored their three-goal advantage. Sandro Tonali struck the post before Esposito reacted fastest to head in the rebound and score his first goal for the national team.
Türkiye continued to push for another goal, but Italy held firm to secure a convincing victory and give Mancini his first win since returning to the role. The result leaves Italy with three points from their opening two Group A1 matches, while Türkiye remain without a point after defeats by France and Italy.
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