How Mancini reacted to Italy boos at the Stadio Olimpico: ‘Climbing Everest’

Roberto Mancini says that he was not overly surprised that Italy 's 2-0 defeat against Belgium on Friday night ended in boos from the Stadio Olimpico crowd, but insists that 'it wasn't all negative, as the first 25 minutes of the second half showed'.

Mancini's second debut as the head coach of the Italy national team ended in a 2-0 defeat at home against Belgium, who punished an underwhelming Azzurri side with goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio in the capital.

ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 25: Mika Godts of Belgium scores a opening goal during 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)