Italy one step from relegation in the Nations League

On October 7, 2026 the Italian national football team is in second place in the Nations League, seven points behind leader France and three ahead of Belgium, but relegation is not yet ruled out; the upcoming matches against France at San Siro and Belgium away will be decisive.

Current standings and scenarios

Italy is second, seven points behind France, which tops the group, and three ahead of Belgium, which beat the Azzurri 0‑2 on September 25. Turkey occupies the last position with zero points. With these figures Italy still appears to be in contention for the quarter‑finals, but the margin is narrow.

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The November break will be decisive: France will arrive at San Siro, while the Azzurri will have to face Belgium away. These two matches will determine whether Italy can reach the knockout stage or risk relegation.

Italy puts pressure on Red Devils with nine subs against Turkey

Relegation risk and path to the quarter‑finals

The new format provides that the two worst third‑placed teams from Serie A and the two best fourth‑placed teams from Serie B play playoffs against the four best second‑placed teams from B. A negative result could push Italy into a true harakiri, with the possibility of dropping to the lower division.

Pio Esposito said: “I thank Mancini for the trust. At Inter I play less? There are the two strongest forwards in the league.” His words highlight confidence in the current squad.

It would be enough to return from Brussels with three points to secure a place in the quarter‑finals, even in case of a draw or loss against France. If Italy were to win in Milan and at the same time De Bruyne and his teammates did not prevail in Turkey, the Azzurri will arrive in Belgium with two results out of three at their disposal.

Montella under pressure as Italy face Turkey

In summary, the qualification prospects are challenging but not prohibitive; the next week of play will be crucial to define Italy’s fate in the Nations League.