ROME -- Six months on from failing to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup, four-time champions Italy are still struggling. Italy were beaten 2-0 at home by World Cup quarterfinalists Belgium in the Nations League on Friday.

Roberto Mancini marked his return to Italy's bench three years after he abandoned the job for a lucrative deal to coach Saudi Arabia and he appeared frustrated on the touchline. By contrast, it was a successful debut for new Belgium coach Mark van Bommel, the former Netherlands international.

Only 47,155 spectators showed up in the 70,000-seat Stadio Olimpico and the home fans were already whistling 20 minutes in after Mika Godts put the visitors ahead with his first international goal. Dodi Lukébakio doubled Belgium's advantage midway through the second half. At the final whistle, Italy were loudly whistled off the pitch.

"When we lose, nobody is happy," Mancini said. "When you lose, you can get jeered." Italy visit Türkiye on Monday and then go to France next Friday.