Thu Oct 10 15:04:54 UTC 2024: ## Italy Aiming for Greatness in Nations League Clash with Belgium

**ROME** – Italy’s head coach Luciano Spalletti expressed confidence that his team can become a “great team” if they play to their full potential, ahead of a crucial Nations League match against Belgium on Thursday.

The Azzurri currently lead Group Two, having won both their opening fixtures last month. However, they face a tough challenge against Belgium, who are level on points with France in second place. “We will immediately become a great team in every match where we will be able to give the best of ourselves,” said Spalletti.

The match against Belgium is considered crucial for Italy’s progress in the tournament. “It is a crucial match for our future,” Spalletti stated, confirming that AS Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini will start. Italy will be without injured Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella and Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa, who is unwell.

Spalletti also included Monza forward Daniel Maldini in his squad. The son of legendary Italian footballer Paolo Maldini, who holds the record for most appearances for AC Milan, and grandson of Cesare Maldini, the last member of the family to represent Italy 61 years ago, is seen as a promising talent. “He is the (kind of) player we were missing,” Spalletti commented.

The match against Belgium takes on added significance for Italy, who were knocked out of Euro 2024 at the last-16 stage and failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. “We feel an obligation to be at the next World Cup in 2026,” Spalletti admitted, but added that it shouldn’t become an obsession.

Before the match, a ceremony will be held at the Stadio Olimpico to commemorate former Italian striker Salvatore Schillaci, who tragically passed away last month. Schillaci was a star of the 1990 World Cup and a beloved figure in Italian football.

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