Turkey v Italy – Pre-match updates and confirmed starting lineups for UEFA Nations League 2026-27

Turkey will face Italy at the Yüzüncü Yıl Atatürk Stadyumu on 28 September 2026 in their second group-stage fixture of the UEFA Nations League 2026-27. Both sides arrive at the match having lost their opening games in the competition.

Vincenzo Montella’s side were beaten 0-1 by Zinedine Zidane’s France in their previous outing, a game in which they failed to control the tempo and came under sustained pressure. Italy lost 0-2 to Belgium in their opening fixture; Roberto Mancini’s men produced multiple attempts but were unable to finish, and the report urges greater attention to counter-attacks and midfield containment.

Arda Guler is singled out among Turkey’s positives, with the 21-year-old described as continuing to impress for club and country. Against France he was the team’s top performer, took the most shots (3) for Turkiye and is noted for his ability to play both on the wing and as an attacking midfielder.

Nicolò Barella is highlighted as a leading figure for Italy; the 29-year-old recorded the joint-most touches (86) in the previous match and was described as one of Gli Azzurri’s most consistent performers. The coverage says he will be looking to produce another strong contribution in the final third.

The Yüzüncü Yıl Atatürk Stadyumu will host the fixture as both teams seek their first points of the UEFA Nations League 2026-27 group stage, with Turkey aiming to use home conditions to trouble the visitors and Italy targeting a response after their opening defeat.