
Mark van Bommel: 'Belgium 100 percent happy' after
September 26, 2026 ·
Mark van Bommel expressed his happiness after Belgium managed to beat Italy, an achievement which was also their first win in an official match since 1972.
Mark van Bommel: ‘Belgium 100 percent happy’ after
According to Sports.
Background
Mark van Bommel, who has just started his coaching career in Belgium, shows great potential in managing the team. This victory is not only a good first step, but also gives Belgian fans new hope of seeing their team compete at the highest level of the football Nations League.
Why this is important
Belgium's victory over Italy is very significant, considering that they have long been trapped in a curse without winning in official matches against Italy since 1972. With this result, Belgium now leads the European Nations League group, which could affect their position in the competition and provide a moral boost for the team under the leadership of Mark van Bommel.
Main Points
- Mark van Bommel: ‘Belgium 100 percent happy’ after.
- Mark van Bommel expressed his happiness after Belgium managed to beat Italy, an achievement which was also their first win in an official match since 1972.
- Van Bommel: ‘Belgium 100 per cent happy’ after ending Italy curse.
Mark van Bommel expressed his happiness after Belgium recorded their first win over Italy in an official match since 1972. This victory moved Belgium to the top of the European Nations League group. The match took place at the Stadio Olimpico and ended with a score of 2-0 for Belgium thanks to goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio.
Van Bommel, who was making his debut as Belgium coach, expressed his satisfaction in the post-match press conference. "I am 100 percent happy and satisfied, although of course there is always room for improvement," he said. He considered that his team showed the right spirit and intensity, which they had trained for the last three days with a 4-3-3 system.
Even though they didn't appear perfect, Van Bommel admitted that they controlled the game in the first half. "Italy pressed us better after the break, but Senne Lammens made a superb save. With a substitution, we regained control of the game and Lukebakio's wonderful goal sealed it, just like he did at San Siro against Milan," he added.
Belgium had not previously won against Italy in an official match since 2-1 in the European Cup playoffs in May 1972, where Italy recorded five wins and two draws.

Godts, who recently moved to Paris Saint-Germain, was not fully fit but was outstanding. "We don't just have 11 starting players, everyone can make a difference. Some players are not capable of playing for 90 minutes. I told Godts to always try to break through the opponent's defense and create something. It is very difficult to maintain this tempo for 90 minutes, especially at international level, but we hope to continue doing so for as long as possible," said Van Bommel.
When asked about Mancini's choice in midfield, Van Bommel was diplomatic. "It's not fair on Mancini. I'm happy with my own midfielders, you have to ask Mancini that question."
Leandro Trossard did not make the trip to Italy due to a heel injury, and the coach confirmed he will also miss Belgium's next game against France. "There will be squad rotation, including players who are on the bench today," he explained.
Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is also not yet fully fit, but has shown significant improvement compared to his performance at the World Cup. "It all depends on him, I can't improve individual players," said Van Bommel with a smile. "When you have De Bruyne's quality, everything becomes easier. He's one of the best players in the history of Belgian football."
What happened next
After this victory, Belgium is expected to maintain their positive momentum in the upcoming matches in the Nations League. Van Bommel will continue to develop the 4-3-3 tactics he has implemented, and his team is expected to improve their performance as the season progresses, with a focus on improving consistency and control of play.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the score of the match Belgium vs Italy?
The score of the match Belgium vs Italy is 2-0 for Belgium.
Who scored the goal for Belgium in this match?
Goals for Belgium were scored by Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio.
What impact will this victory have on Belgium's position in the Nations League group?
This victory brought Belgium to the top of the European Nations League group.
When will Belgium play again after playing against Italy?
Information regarding Belgium's next match after playing Italy has not been mentioned in the article.
Who is the new Belgian coach after this match?
The new Belgian coach is Mark van Bommel.