Italy's 3-2 win over Netherlands secures third spot in UEFA Nations League 2023

Two goals in the first half were enough for Mancini's men

Italy have secured yet another third place in the UEFA Nations League after a 3-2 win over the Netherlands in the 2023 final. This thrilling encounter saw the Italians taking an early lead and the Dutch were given no chance of a comeback.

This is the second time when Italy have secured a third spot in the UEFA Nations League. In the UEFA Nations League 2021 final, they came victorious against Belgium.

Against the Netherlands, Federico Dimarco gave Roberto Mancini's side an early lead in the 6th minute. Davide Fratessi doubled Italy's lead in the 20th minute and they defended this lead in the first half.

The Dutch were playing in front of their home supporters and tried to make a comeback in the second half. Steven Bergwijn broke the deadlock for his side in the 68th minute.

The Azzurri replied with another goal in the 72nd minute. Federico Chiesa was on the scoresheet. The match had a lot of excitement towards the end. The home team scored their second goal in the 89th minute. Gini Wijnaldum's goal took the scoreline to 3-2.

Roberto Mancini's men defended their goal towards the end and secured third place. Leeds United's youngster Wilfried Gnoto started for the Italians in this match. The 19-year-old provided an assist and played a crucial part in his side's win.

Italy lost the semifinal match 2-1 against Spain. They conceded a late goal and suffered another heartbreak. The Italians last won a major title in 2020. They won the UEFA Euro against England. Now they will look to focus on the EURO 2024 qualification.