Van Bommel: ‘Italy didn’t surprise me, maybe France underestimated them’

Van Bommel: ‘Italy didn’t surprise me, maybe France underestimated them’ Belgium coach Mark van Bommel says Italy’s 3-1 win over France didn’t surprise him, and he suggested Les Bleus may have underestimated Roberto Mancini’s side. With quotes via the Corriere dello Sport , the former Milan midfielder spoke at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Nations League showdown with Italy in Brussels, which kicks off at 20:45 CET [19:45 GMT] at the King Baudouin Stadium. Belgium must win to reach the quarter-finals. They’re third in Group A1 with nine points, one behind Italy and France. Italy will go through with a draw, and they’ll top the group if they win. “It’s an important game that would allow us to continue or not,” Van Bommel said. “It’s a test comparable to other cups, an interesting game to play under pressure. We always prepare the same way, whether it’s a final or not. “Tomorrow only victory counts, but it’s not a final that lets you win a cup.” ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 25: Mark van Bommel head coach of Belgium celebrates after winning 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) Van Bommel on Italy, France and Lukaku Italy go into the game full of confidence after beating France at San Siro on Thursday . Pio Esposito scored twice, and Zinedine Zidane suffered his first defeat as France coach. “Italy didn’t surprise me, and Turkey also deserved more against France,” Van Bommel continued. “Italy are a very good team. Maybe France took them lightly, but it doesn’t surprise me.” Belgium kept their hopes alive with a 2-1 comeback win in Turkey on Thursday, with Kevin De Bruyne and Charles De Ketelaere scoring. Van Bommel also confirmed Romelu Lukaku will have a role to play, whether from the start or off the bench. “He’s always important, whether he starts or comes on as a substitute. He’s a player with a lot of experience, and it’s a good thing to have him in a full stadium.”