Mancini: Playing for qualification in Nations League is a source of pride

Italy need to avoid defeat against Belgium in Brussels to secure top spot in Nations League A1 and reach the quarter-finals; Mancini confirms Cambiaghi and Frattesi are out.

Italy travel to Brussels to face Belgium in the final Nations League A1 group match on Thursday (20:45 CET, Norwegian referee Eskas). The Azzurri can qualify for the quarter-finals with a win or draw, holding the advantage of needing just one positive result from three possible outcomes to top the group and advance regardless of the France-Turkey match.

Manager Roberto Mancini expressed confidence ahead of the fixture despite Belgium's quality. "Being here and playing for qualification in Nations League is a source of pride," he said. "We can win it even though we know it won't be easy because Belgium is a great national team."

Mancini noted he has seen positive signs since arriving and was optimistic despite Italy's first-leg defeat, when they played well in the second half.

Mancini confirmed Cambiaghi and Frattesi are unavailable due to injury, with Calafiori also requiring assessment. He indicated the starting XI is largely settled but will evaluate players' fitness during Thursday's final training session.