Mbappe injured as Zidane wins on France debut, Italy lose on Mancini return

In his first match as France's coach, Zinedine Zidane led his team to a 1-0 victory over Turkey in the Uefa Nations League Group A1 match at the Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit. The win came nine minutes into the second half when Kylian Mbappe scored from close range, only for the Real Madrid star to be injured shortly after the goal. Mbappe was substituted shortly thereafter, and Zidane stated that the captain would not likely feature in the remaining three Nations League matches.

Turkey finished the game with a man disadvantage following a late red card to goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir.

Meanwhile, Italy's Roberto Mancini made his return to the national team, leading them to a 2-0 defeat against Belgium in Rome. Mancini's side fell behind early to a goal from Mika Godts of Paris Saint-Germain, and substitute Dodi Lukebakio extended the lead with a second goal. Italy's captain Isak and Gyokeres scored for the home side, ultimately securing a victory. Mancini, who led Italy to Euro 2020 success, acknowledged the challenges they face after failing to qualify for the World Cup.