June 08, (THEWILL) – In Cesena on Tuesday, a makeshift Italy side brought home the goods as Roberto Mancini’s charges won their first UEFA Nations League match 2-1 over Hungary.
Mancini made six changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Germany in the squad he put out against Hungary. Coming from their historic 1-0 win over England on Saturday, Hungary’s resolve was destroyed after barely half an hour, as Nicolo Barella’s arrowed effort from outside the box found the top corner.
Then, Lorenzo Pellegrini extended the Azzurri’s lead, tapping home from Matteo Politano’s pull-back for the 25-year-old’s second goal in as many outings. With 30 minutes remaining, an own goal from Gianluca Mancini as he attempted to clear Attila Fiola’s cross halved the deficit.
As Hungary tried for an equaliser, Gianluigi Donnarumma had to react swiftly to deflect Ronald Sallai’s effort over the bar. However, Italy cruised to second place in Group A3, tied on points with Germany after two games.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
