Giovanni Di Lorenzo defends Italy approach after 2-0 Belgium defeat

Italy suffered a disappointing start to Roberto Mancini's second tenure as national team head coach, falling 2-0 to Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico. Goals from Mika Godts and substitute Dodi Lukebakio condemned the Azzurri to a defeat that drew jeers from the home crowd.

Italy captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo admitted after the match that defensive lapses were the deciding factor against a clinical Belgian side. "The team gave everything, and it's disappointing because we wanted to make a good start. We have to improve," the defender stated.

Despite the setback, Di Lorenzo highlighted the positives in the team's performance, noting that the intense pressing strategy in the first half was exactly what the coaching staff requested. He noted that the squad struggled to balance that enthusiasm with defensive caution.

He's a phenomenal player. I'm lucky enough to see him train every day. He had a great game tonight - unfortunately for us. There are absolutely no doubts about his quality. Giovanni Di Lorenzo on Kevin De Bruyne

Mancini now faces the challenge of lifting his squad's morale ahead of a crucial away fixture against Turkiye on September 28. Belgium will also face a major test on the same day as they host France in a match that will shape the early standings in their Nations League group.