Italy clinches Belgium win to reach Nations League 1/4-finals

Italy has secured a spot in the UEFA Nations League knockout stages for the third consecutive time, following a 1-0 victory over Belgium.

The win allowed Italy to maintain its unbeaten streak in the current competition.

Italy started the match with strong control, and their early pressure paid off when Sandro Tonali scored his first international goal in the 11th minute. The Italian midfielder capitalized on a loose ball to give his team an early advantage.

Italy beat Belgium in Brussels with Sandro Tonali’s first-ever senior goal for the Azzurri 👏🇧🇪🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/Gc9iPj2x6a

More on this topic:

England trash Ireland to top group 2 of League B

— OneFootball (@OneFootball) November 14, 2024

Belgium struggled to break down Italy’s defense in the first half, but they began to pose a greater threat after the break. Arne Engels, Zino Debast, and Leandro Trossard attempted long-range efforts, but none found the target. Italy’s Mateo Retegui was denied a second goal by an impressive save, while Trossard had a promising volley pushed around the post.

As the match neared its conclusion, Belgium increased their pressure, creating several late chances. Romelu Lukaku had a couple of opportunities, including a header that went wide and a shot that was blocked. In the dying moments, Wout Faes hit the post, but Italy managed to hold on for a crucial victory, securing their place in the knockout rounds.