Vincenzo Montella has vowed to lead Turkey to victory over Italy in the Nations League after their narrow 1-0 win over France on Friday.
Kylian Mbappe’s 54th-minute goal was enough to give Zidane victory in his first game in charge of Turka Arak Muayene Kocaeli Stadum.
Ugurkan Cakir was shown a red card for handball outside the penalty area but Montella was delighted with his side’s performance against France’s star-studded side.
Turkey’s expected goals (xG) total from 12 shots was 1.21, while France’s xG from the same number of shots was 1.17.
Montella’s side faced Italy, who were starting their second season under Roberto Mancini and lost 2-0 at home to Belgium, with Mika Goetz and Dodi Lukebakio scoring in each half and giving Mark Van Bommel a winning debut.
This is the first confrontation between the two countries since a 0-0 draw in an international friendly match in June 2024, but Italy has a good record in this game.
The Azzurri have never lost in their last 14 games against Turkey (10 wins, 4 draws).
However, Montella believes his side’s performance against France is a solid foundation and he is confident of a win over Italy on Monday.
“You all played well and showed your fighting spirit,” Montella told his team.
Our national team is watching Italy play in Bursa. #ourchildren | #turn | #UNL pic.twitter.com/JnOioldtkO
– Türkiye #OurChilds (@MilliTakimlar) September 27, 2026
“We conceded a goal due to a lack of concentration but we could have won the game.
“Now we will immediately focus on the match against Italy. As long as we maintain the same discipline and enthusiasm, we will definitely win this time.”
After the first round, the Turkish team ranked third in Group A1 and will face Belgium and Italy before the end of the international break.