Italy opened a new chapter with a victory, defeating Luxembourg 1-0 in their first friendly since failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

In Silvio Baldini's debut match as interim head coach, the Azzurri delivered an encouraging performance built around one of the youngest starting lineups in the national team's history. The decisive moment came early in the second half when Francesco Pio Esposito headed home from a corner kick to score the only goal of the match.

Italy showed flashes of quality throughout the game but lacked efficiency in front of goal. After a balanced first half, Esposito's strike in the 49th minute gave the visitors the lead they deserved.

The Azzurri came close to extending their advantage on several occasions. Niccolò Pisilli struck the post, while Fini and Koleosho both missed opportunities to put the result beyond doubt. At the other end, Gianluigi Donnarumma was rarely troubled as Luxembourg struggled to create clear chances.

The match also offered an opportunity to assess several emerging talents. Players such as Favasuli, Chiarodia, Lipani, Cherubini and Koleosho started, while Fortini, Fini, Dagasso, Mane, Camarda and Inacio all featured from the bench.

For Baldini, the evening provided positive signs from a squad filled with youth and potential. Italy will now travel to Greece for a second friendly on Sunday, where the Azzurri will look to build further momentum ahead of the next phase of the national team's rebuilding process.