Italy, Mancini: "Great victory, must get result in Belgium. Pio can break Riva's record"

Mancini praised Italy's comeback win over France but warned the result means nothing without a positive result against Belgium in their final Nations League match.

Italy manager Roberto Mancini expressed satisfaction after his side's victory over France at San Siro, highlighting their ability to react after falling behind early. "These are the most beautiful matches to play and win because you remember them, and to win them you have to play well," Mancini said.

"We went down after 10 minutes, suffered for a few more minutes, but then we were in the game and managed to react very well."

Mancini acknowledged the team's continued development despite lacking the experience of some rivals. He clarified that Pio Esposito was the designated penalty taker after Sebastiano Esposito missed from the spot, saying there would be no confusion next time. On Esposito's potential, Mancini expressed hope the young striker could eventually break Gigi Riva's long-standing goal record of 35 for Italy.

Looking ahead, Mancini stressed the importance of the final Nations League fixture in Brussels against Belgium. "In Brussels we must get a result, otherwise this match counts for nothing," he said. "We must improve as a team and bring the people back to support us."