Calafiori: First Italy Goal in Bologna Felt Fated, Thanks Bonucci for Set Piece Instruction

Riccardo Calafiori believes his first Italy goal, scored in Bologna, was destined to happen. He also credited Leonardo Bonucci for the set play tactic used against Turkiye, joking about Bonucci's ego.

Following nine changes from the previous match against France, the team displayed a less cohesive performance at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna. Gianluca Scamacca opened the scoring, but Turkiye's Aral Simsir secured a deserved equalizer. Substitutes Riccardo Calafiori and Pio Esposito later contributed to the final 3-1 scoreline.

This marked Calafiori's first senior international goal for his country in his 17th appearance. He has primarily played at center-back, with fewer appearances at left-back.

Calafiori's Connection to Bologna

“This afternoon, I told Scamacca when we were sunbathing that he would score, and it worked out well, for both of us!” Calafiori shared with Sky Sport Italia.

He felt a strong sense of destiny, as Bologna was where he had made his mark before his transfer to Arsenal. Playing in familiar territory felt significant.

“It was all written in the stars. I made my debut here and scored my first goal. I owe a lot to this city and these fans. I wanted to repay them; it was emotional. I hadn’t felt a game like this in a long time; it really affected me.”

The goal came from a set piece, with Nicolò Barella delivering a free kick to the back post for Calafiori's header. He was asked if he and Bonucci had practiced this specific routine.

“We are trying to improve; we can always do better. Bonucci initially told me to stay back, but at the last second, he changed his mind and said I should go forward while Kayode stayed behind,” Calafiori revealed.

“It was a smart decision, so Bonucci deserves a special mention, especially since he’s quite egocentric and wants me to say that,” Calafiori added with a laugh.

The team's recent four matches in 11 days have concluded with a 2-0 home loss to Belgium, two wins against Turkiye, and a 1-1 draw away to France.

“Mancini gives us a sense of calm. He lets us be free but focuses us on a single team idea.”

France's 4-1 victory over Belgium means Italy now sits second in Nations League Group A with seven points, one point ahead of Belgium.

This turnaround contrasts sharply with the initial 2-0 home defeat to Belgium, which had caused concern among Italian media.

“Things have changed in just a few days. We said in the first interview that we couldn't see the work develop in three days, but honestly, not even after two weeks,” Calafiori concluded.

“There is still much to do. We have improved, but we can do much better, and then we will have our say in the final two matches.”