Belgium 0-1 Italy: Tonali's precious first goal books Nations League quarter final

Moment of magic from young midfielder secures important win in Brussels

Substitute Nicolo Barella's cross found Sandro Tonali in the box and the AC Milan midfielder steered a low finish past Thibaut Courtois on the stroke of half-time.

Roberto Mancini's side were good value for their narrow victory, which means they finish top of Group A1 and will now face Group B2 runners-up Spain in the semi-finals in October.

Belgium, who needed only a draw to progress as group winners, dominated possession but failed to create many clear-cut chances against a well-organised Italy defence.

The hosts' best opportunity came in the second half when Romelu Lukaku sent a free header wide from close range, but Italy held on to secure a deserved victory.

Tonali's moment of magic

Tonali's goal was a moment of real quality from the 22-year-old midfielder, who has been in impressive form for AC Milan this season.

The Italy international showed great composure to control Barella's cross and then fire a low finish past Courtois into the bottom corner.

It was Tonali's first goal for his country and it proved to be the winning goal in a crucial match.

Italy's defensive resilience

Italy's defence was in excellent form throughout the match, with Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci marshalling the backline superbly.

The Azzurri restricted Belgium to very few chances, with Lukaku's header the only real opportunity the hosts had to score.

Gianluigi Donnarumma made a comfortable save from Lukaku's effort and Italy held on to claim a valuable clean sheet.

Belgium's disappointment

Belgium will be disappointed to have missed out on top spot in Group A1, especially after they dominated possession for long periods of the match.

The Red Devils lacked creativity in the final third and failed to create enough clear-cut chances to trouble the Italy defence.

Roberto Martinez's side will now have to face a tough semi-final against Spain in October if they want to reach the Nations League final.

Conclusion

Italy's victory over Belgium was a deserved one, as the Azzurri showed great quality and resilience to secure a crucial win.

Tonali's goal was a moment of magic, while the Italy defence was in excellent form throughout the match.

Belgium will be disappointed to have missed out on top spot in Group A1, but they will now have to focus on their semi-final against Spain in October.