Van Bommel on Belgium strength and Italy weakness after 2-0 result

ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 25: Mark van Bommel head coach of Belgium celebrates after winning the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Italy and Belgium at Stadio Olimpico on September 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi/Getty Images)

Mark van Bommel’s speech to the Belgium team after their 2-0 Nations League victory in Italy showed the vast difference between the teams. ‘Everyone knows what they have to do.’

Although it was the return to the Azzurri bench for Roberto Mancini after a three-year absence, it was also the debut of new Belgium coach Van Bommel.

The former Milan midfielder had not been in management for two years, so there were some question marks over how he would approach the game at the Stadio Olimpico.

Belgium’s social media channels released footage of his speech to the players in the dressing room after the final whistle, and it reflected many of the issues that Mancini is facing in his new Italy experience.

Van Bommel praise for Belgium

“After three to four days, we are trying to bring in an idea,” he told the squad.

“I think everyone understands that idea and can carry it out. The substitutes get it too and they can carry it out, which brings calm to the team.

“You don’t do it with XI, we do it all together.”

There was also individual praise for Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who made some big saves when it was still only 1-0 and Italy were mounting a fightback.

“Senne, great stuff. Big moment, keeping that ball out,” said Van Bommel.

“This is a start, we’ve only been at it for four days. If you can bring this, and we improve every time, then we’ll get better and stronger. And then you enjoy it too, that’s important that you enjoy it.

“In defending too, in the way you deal with the opponent, so they can’t get through. Of course, you need a bit of luck too, they had a few chances just after half-time.

“But then you make a change, and the game shifts again. Calm returns to the team. My compliments, lads.”

Belgium already have a clear identity and shape, something that really cannot be said of the Italy team at any point over the last few years.

“That comes down to intensity, commitment and quality,” continued Van Bommel, reflecting everything the Nazionale lack right now.

“When another player comes on, you get different qualities, but it all fits together and everyone knows what they have to do. Then football is pretty simple.”

One happy coach. 🇧🇪 pic.twitter.com/XI05zkzu9t

— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) September 26, 2026

Belgium play France on Monday for top spot in Nations League Group A, whereas Italy and Turkiye face off the same evening to avoid being rock bottom.