Kevin De Bruyne delivered a clinical performance on Friday, netting two goals to secure a 3-0 victory for Belgium against Turkey in the Nations League. Playing in his 127th international cap, the Napoli midfielder opened the scoring by executing a precise one-two with Dodi Lukebakio before firing a composed finish into the net from the edge of the box. De Bruyne later doubled his tally, curling a shot from a similar distance past goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir and into the top corner. Romelu Lukaku added a third goal from close range following a cross by Charles De Ketelaere. But they had no reward for their efforts in the Belgian city of Liege. “I am very pleased with the 3-0 win.
Reflecting on his impact, De Bruyne noted his desire to lead the younger squad members by example, adding that he feels he can still contribute meaningfully to the team. Belgium coach Mark van Bommel praised the veteran’s form, observing that De Bruyne is playing with clear joy, though he admitted the team lacked control during certain phases of the match. While the victory was significant, Belgium remains one point behind Group A1 leaders France. While Belgium looked threatening without creating many clear-cut chances, Turkey posed the greater attacking danger after De Bruyne’s opener. And that is the main thing.”, i am enjoying myself. We were sloppy in possession now and then and gave the opposition the feeling they could create chances. “It went back and forth, and we were not controlled enough in those phases. Though I never felt we were in danger of losing.”, we kept them in the match for a long time.
At the Stade de France, Zinedine Zidane oversaw his first home match as manager, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Italy. Michael Olise, fresh off a solo winner in the previous game, scored for the hosts with a powerful free-kick that deflected in off the crossbar early in the second half. However, Italy’s Alessandro Bastoni leveled the score later in the match. Despite a late red card for defender Dayot Upamecano, France remains atop Group A1 with seven points. Meanwhile, four days after coming off the bench to score a stunning solo effort to give France a 1-0 win in Belgium, Bayern Munich star Olise again showcased his spectacular talent by smashing a shot in off the crossbar from a free-kick early in the second half.
Match Context and Team Details
- Zidane’s return: The match marked Zidane’s first appearance at the Stade de France since his infamous 2006 World Cup final exit against Italy.
- Squad absences: France played without captain Kylian Mbappe, who returned to his club due to a knee injury.
- Italy’s approach: Coach Roberto Mancini is spearheading a rebuilding effort, noting the squad is on the right path after failing to qualify for the last three World Cups.
- Next fixtures: France will host Belgium on Monday to conclude the current international window, while Italy prepares for a matchup against Turkey.
The Italian side proved resilient, largely thanks to captain Gianluigi Donnarumma, who pulled off a series of vital saves in the second half to keep his team in the contest. Mancini expressed pride in his side’s performance against one of the world’s elite teams. The fixture also saw early chances for Italy through Moise Kean and Davide Frattesi, though France’s defense and goalkeeper Mike Maignan stood firm for much of the evening.
