ESPOSITO MAKE HISTORY
Italy produced one of the biggest responses of the Nations League round, beating Turkey 4-1 in Bursa. But the result also created a remarkable family story.
Pio Esposito and his older brother Sebastiano Esposito started together for Italy, becoming the first brothers to start an Azzurri match since 1915.
Sebastiano was making his senior international debut. Pio had already established himself with the national team and added another goal to his growing international record.
The family milestone came during a night when Italy looked transformed. Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring, Davide Frattesi doubled the advantage, and Michael Kayode scored on his senior debut. Pio Esposito then completed the 4-1 victory after Turkey briefly reduced the deficit.
The Esposito story became even bigger because their older brother Salvatore has also represented Italy. That means all three brothers have now played for the senior national team.
For Italy, the performance was badly needed. Roberto Mancini’s side had lost 2-0 to Belgium in the opening Nations League match, so a response was essential.
Instead of another cautious display, Italy attacked with speed and confidence and scored three times inside the opening half-hour.
The next challenge is much tougher. Italy will face France on Friday, where the Esposito brothers’ remarkable night will be followed by a serious test.
Football rarely gives families moments like this. Italy has just created one.