Turkey and Italy meet at Timsah Arena with both teams searching for their first points of the Nations League campaign. Turkey pushed France close in their opening match, while Italy made a disappointing start with a home defeat against Belgium.

Turkey made France work for the victory

Turkey began the competition with a narrow 1–0 defeat against France. Kylian Mbappé scored the only goal, but the hosts remained in the match until the final whistle.

Their defensive performance was encouraging. Turkey stayed organised, limited the space available to France and avoided the heavy defeat that many expected against one of the strongest squads in Europe.

They also had moments when they caused problems going forward. Arda Güler remains their most creative player and will again be important when Turkey try to play through Italy’s midfield.

Playing at Timsah Arena should give Turkey another boost. The home support can create a difficult atmosphere, but the hosts are unlikely to take unnecessary risks after seeing how effective their defensive approach was against France.

Italy begin another rebuilding period

Italy opened their Nations League campaign with a 2–0 defeat against Belgium in Rome. Mika Godts gave Belgium an early lead before Dodi Lukebakio added the second goal after the break.

Roberto Mancini has returned as manager following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. His first squad included nine uncapped players, making it clear that the national team is entering another period of change.

Italy still have experienced players such as Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alessandro Bastoni, Nicolò Barella and Sandro Tonali. However, the attack is less settled, with Mateo Retegui left out of the squad and several different forwards competing for places.

The defeat against Belgium showed the problems Mancini must solve. Italy had periods with possession but struggled to turn that control into clear chances. They will need a more effective attacking performance in Turkey.

Another tight match looks likely

Both teams enter the match under pressure after losing their opening games. A second defeat would leave either side with a difficult task in a group that also includes France and Belgium.

Turkey showed against France that they are comfortable defending in a compact shape. Italy should have more possession, but they may find it difficult to create space against a team sitting deep.

The visitors are also unlikely to play with too much risk after conceding twice against Belgium. Mancini needs a result, and keeping the match under control should be the first priority.

Turkey’s opening match produced only one goal, while Italy failed to score against Belgium. With both teams still adjusting and neither attack looking at its best, this could develop into a slow and cautious game.

Tip

Under 2.5 goals