Cambiaghi: Italy Must Improve Against Turkiye After Belgium Loss

Nicolò Cambiaghi admitted Italy "really struggled in the first half" against Belgium. However, he expressed confidence that they will deliver a "better" performance in their next Nations League match against Turkiye.

The Bologna winger started in a 4-3-3 formation alongside Moise Kean and Francesco Pio Esposito, forming an attacking trio. Despite the team's overall performance, Cambiaghi was one of the few players who stood out at the Stadio Olimpico.

His adaptability allowed Italy to switch to a 3-5-2 formation when needed, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo pushing up on the right flank. This tactical adjustment, however, did not prevent a 2-0 defeat, as Belgium scored through Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio, capitalizing on midfield errors.

“To be honest, we struggled significantly in the first half. Belgium played better and created many scoring chances; Gigio Donnarumma saved us multiple times,” Cambiaghi told Sky Sport Italia.

“We improved after halftime and had two or three clear opportunities, but we couldn't equalize. Then they scored their second goal on a counter-attack.”

This marks only the second time in Italy's history that they have lost a home match by a two-goal margin without scoring, the previous instance being a 2-0 loss to Croatia in August 2006.

“I believe we need to build on the second-half reaction. We haven't trained together for long, and our time before the next game is limited,” Cambiaghi added.

“We are a strong team, but we must demonstrate it after recent disappointments. The lack of practice and time together is no excuse. I am certain we will see a better Italy starting Monday.”

Italy will face Vincenzo Montella's Turkiye on Monday at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST). This match is crucial for avoiding the bottom spot in the group, as Turkiye also suffered a 1-0 home loss to France, with Kylian Mbappé scoring the decisive goal.