Three great goals! Italy makes an impressive comeback in France, Belgium also wins at the start of the Nations League

Belgium took the lead against Israel in Debrecen, Hungary, through Kevin De Bruyne (21′), but Israel countered before half-time through Anan Khalaili (36′). Youri Tielemans (48′) and again De Bruyne (53’/penalty) finally made things clear, but Leipzig’s Lois Openda (56′) missed another penalty.

The Austrians, coached by Ralf Rangnick, at least avoided a false start thanks to Konrad Laimer. The Bayern professional was substituted in the 28th minute, after Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko (16th) had put the hosts ahead with a converted penalty. New Mönchengladbach player Kevin Stöger made his international debut in the 82nd minute.

In Austria’s group, Norway had previously struggled to a 0-0 draw in Kazakhstan. And that was despite the Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, Arsenal playmaker Martin Ödegaard and former Leipzig player Alexander Sörloth starting the game. Can Uzun (Eintracht Frankfurt), Eren Dinkci (SC Freiburg) and Salih Özcan (VfL Wolfsburg) did not play in Turkey’s 0-0 draw in Wales.

France could have conceded an equalizer early on, but Frattesi’s header (6′) only hit the crossbar. Dimarco did better, finishing with a spectacular volley after a backheel pass from Tonali.

The French, with Munich’s Michael Olise making his international debut on the wings, rarely managed to get dangerous shots on goal. Instead, Italy struck twice with ice-cold precision.