- Italy lost a 2-0 Nations League lead against Belgium in Rome, but at least scored one point.
- France conceded a temporary equalizer against Israel, but eventually won 4-1.
- In the Group 2 table, Italy is still the leader, France is one point behind.
Everything would be prepared for Italy’s third victory in the third League of Nations game. The Italians were leading 2-0 against Belgium in Rome shortly before half-time, and the lead was fully deserved. The “Squadra Azzurra” were better in every way and scored 1-0 after 60 seconds. Andrea Cambiaso kissed the ball over the line. In the 24th minute it was Mateo Retegui who made it 2-0 with a rebound from close range.
But suddenly disaster struck for Italy. After a defensive pass that was too short, Lorenzo Pellegrini reached for the tackle and hit opponent Arthur Theate with his open foot above the ankle. The referee’s verdict – after a video consultation – is to send him off.
Belgium is catching up
And the guests quickly took advantage of the advantage that arose from the lie. After a neat kick variation, the ball landed for Maxim de Cuyper, who reduced the score to 1-2 with his first international goal from the edge of the penalty area.
After the break, the Belgians took advantage of his superiority and were more and more ahead of the game. But they still needed a set piece to equalise: Leandro Trossard scored from a corner to make it 2-2 (61′). There were no more goals – after a strong half, the draw was the final level result.
France trembles only briefly
France won a must-win against Israel. In the 4-1 away win in Budapest, where Israel plays its home games, the French took the lead after just 6 minutes through Eduardo Camavinga. Goalkeeper Omri Glazer, however, was kind enough to help him and the harmless finisher was allowed to pass.
After the surprise 1-1 by Omri Gandelman (24th), France responded quickly and were in front again 4 minutes later thanks to Christopher Nkunku. Matteo Guendouzi (87th) and Bradley Barcola (89th) ensured the clear result late on.
The goals in other League of Nations games