Italy: Mancini hails Donnarumma after France draw

Roberto Mancini believes Italy’s latest performance has strengthened the team’s confidence, with Gianluigi Donnarumma playing a decisive role in its progress. The coach singled out the goalkeeper after a demanding night against France, saying his interventions protected Italy when the pressure increased.

Italy drew 1-1 in France, following a defeat by Belgium and a victory in Turkey. The sequence has given Mancini’s side a more positive direction after its poor start, while the draw showed that Italy could withstand sustained pressure against a strong opponent.

Mancini praised Donnarumma’s reliability in decisive moments, describing him as the world’s best goalkeeper. The Italy captain, who now plays for Manchester City, made the saves his team needed and helped preserve the result when France threatened. Mancini also highlighted the collective work of the side, which defended and attacked together despite periods when it had to endure pressure.

The coach said Italy still needs time to develop into an excellent national team, but viewed the performance in France as evidence that it is moving forward. The result also reflected a change in confidence after the second half against Belgium, with Italy showing it could defend when necessary while still trying to create chances and score.