Nations League: Italy and Belgium Draw in Thrilling Encounter
In a highly anticipated clash in the Nations League, Italy and Belgium played to a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on October 10, 2024. This match was crucial for both teams, with Italy aiming to maintain their lead in Group A2 after winning their first two matches, while Belgium sought to recover from their previous defeat against France.
The match kicked off with Italy quickly asserting dominance, with goals from Cambiasso and Retegui putting them ahead 2-0 by the 24th minute. However, the tide turned in the 40th minute when Pellegri received a red card after a VAR review, leaving Italy with ten men. Belgium capitalized on this advantage, with De Cuyper scoring just before halftime, narrowing the gap to 2-1.
In the second half, Belgium continued to press, and their efforts paid off when Trossard's corner led to an equalizer in the 62nd minute. Despite several opportunities, including a missed chance by Openda, the match ended in a stalemate, leaving Italy still atop the group but with a more precarious lead.
Other Matches in the Nations League
In other notable matches, France secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Israel, while England faced a shocking 1-2 defeat at home against Greece. Pavlidis scored twice for Greece, including a dramatic injury-time winner that sealed the game. Finland also suffered a late loss to Ireland, with Brady scoring the decisive goal in the dying moments.
In Group B3, Norway's Erling Haaland shone with a brace in a 3-0 win over Slovenia, while Austria dominated Kazakhstan with a 4-0 victory. North Macedonia, Gibraltar, and Moldova also celebrated wins in the third tier, while the Faroe Islands were held to a last-minute draw against Armenia.
