By OkayGoal
Italy
25 Sep 2026
19:45
Belgium
Italy welcome Belgium to open their UEFA Nations League Group A1 campaign on 25 September 2026, with kickoff set for 19:45 BST. Both sides arrive under fresh stewardship: Roberto Mancini returns for a second spell in charge of the Azzurri, while Mark van Bommel takes the Belgian dugout for the first time. Italy are desperate to rebuild after the humiliation of missing this summer’s World Cup, and a strong Nations League showing would go some way towards restoring pride. France and Türkiye lurk elsewhere in the group, making early points vital.
1X: Double Chance Italy or Draw
Match Analysis
Italy enter this Nations League opener as clear favorites at 2.10, backed by superior recent form and a historically dominant head-to-head record against Belgium. With Mancini back in charge, the Azzurri target a strong start despite notable absences.
- 4W-1D-1L in their last 6 matches, averaging 2.17 points per game for Italy.
- 4 clean sheets in their last 6 games highlight Italy’s defensive solidity and organization.
- 6 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss in 8 all-time H2H meetings heavily favors the Azzurri.
- Italy average 2.1 goals per game in H2H fixtures versus Belgium’s 1.1 conceded.
Belgium arrive at 3.30 facing a structural crisis on Van Bommel’s debut: Courtois, De Bruyne, Lukaku, Doku, Onana, and Trossard are all unavailable, stripping the Red Devils of quality across every line of the pitch.
- Six first-choice starters absent across goalkeeper, midfield, and attack for Belgium.
- Belgium managed only 2W-3D-1L in their last 6 matches, recording just 1 clean sheet.
- Van Bommel’s debut as head coach adds tactical uncertainty to an already depleted squad.
Key point: With both squads heavily depleted and H2H fixtures averaging just 2.1 goals, 1.95 offers a compelling low-scoring game angle to complement the home-or-draw prediction.
Form & Statistics: Italy vs Belgium
Italy
Recent form
WWD
Wins2/3 (67%)
Draws1/3 (33%)
Losses0/3 (0%)
Season statistics (3)
0Total goals
0%Both teams score
0Goals scored
0Goals conceded
Belgium
Recent form
LWWWD
Wins3/5 (60%)
Draws1/5 (20%)
Losses1/5 (20%)
Season statistics (5)
0Total goals
0%Both teams score
0Goals scored
0Goals conceded
Our Verdict
Italy’s double chance of a home win or draw represents the standout selection here. The Azzurri’s recent form reads three wins and a draw from four outings, while Belgium have managed just one victory in their last five. A dominant head-to-head record of six wins from eight meetings further tilts the balance. Mark van Bommel’s side must cope without Courtois, De Bruyne, and Lukaku, weakening their spine considerably. Back Italy not to lose, with the home win price at 2.10 offering the anchor for this pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bet for Italy vs Belgium?
The double chance covering Italy or a draw is the standout selection here, with the home side available at 2.10. Italy’s superior form (4W-1D-1L in their last six), a historically dominant head-to-head record, and Belgium’s catastrophic absentee list, including Courtois, De Bruyne, and Lukaku, all point firmly towards the Azzurri not losing this fixture.
What time does Italy vs Belgium kick off?
Italy vs Belgium kicks off at 18:45 UTC on 25 September 2026. The precise venue has yet to be confirmed, though the match will be staged in Italy as part of the UEFA Nations League group stage. Check your local listings for the exact kickoff time in your time zone.
Where can I watch Italy vs Belgium on TV?
Broadcast arrangements for this UEFA Nations League fixture are yet to be officially confirmed at the time of writing. In the United Kingdom, UEFA Nations League matches are typically shared between Channel 4 and Sky Sports. Viewers are advised to consult their respective broadcasters or streaming platforms for the most up-to-date scheduling information.
What is Italy’s recent record against Belgium?
Italy’s head-to-head record against Belgium is highly favourable, with six wins, one draw, and one defeat across their last eight meetings. The Azzurri have averaged 2.1 goals per match in those fixtures compared to Belgium’s 1.1, underlining a clear pattern of Italian dominance that stretches back across several years of competitive and friendly encounters.