Van Bommel: ‘Belgium 100 per cent happy’ after ending Italy curse

In a thrilling encounter that will be remembered by Belgian fans for years to come, Belgium secured a much-needed victory over Italy, ending a longstanding winless streak. Head coach Mark van Bommel expressed his delight, stating that the team and nation are ‘100 per cent happy’ with the outcome.

Breaking the Curse

For the past decade, Belgium has struggled to overcome Italy in competitive fixtures, often faltering in crucial moments. However, in their latest European Championship qualifier held at the King Baudouin Stadium, Belgium emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. This result not only boosts their qualification campaign but also lifts a psychological burden that had been weighing heavily on the team.

• Key Players Shine: Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated the midfield with his usual flair, while Romelu Lukaku’s decisive strike in the 78th minute sealed the victory.
• Defensive Resilience: Despite Italy’s relentless attack, Belgium’s defense, led by Jan Vertonghen, held firm, showcasing a blend of experience and tactical discipline.

Van Bommel’s Impact

Since taking the helm, Mark van Bommel has instilled a renewed sense of confidence and tactical acumen within the squad. Speaking after the match, Van Bommel praised his players’ commitment and highlighted the importance of this victory in the broader context of building a winning mentality.

"This win is not just about three points; it’s about overcoming our mental barriers and proving to ourselves that we can beat the best," Van Bommel stated.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Belgium cements its place at the top of Group A, setting the stage for a strong finish to the qualification round. The team will now turn its focus to upcoming matches, aiming to maintain momentum and secure a spot in the highly anticipated tournament next summer.

As Belgium moves forward, the nation eagerly anticipates what this revitalized squad, under Van Bommel’s leadership, can achieve on the international stage. For now, fans can relish in the satisfaction of finally overcoming Italy, a feat that seemed elusive for far too long.