Belgium vs Italy player ratings: Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini provide classic Italian rearguard action
Who impressed us during the Group E clash in Lyon?
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Emanuele Giaccherini and Graziano Pelle got Italy off to a winning start with stunning goals to sink fellow Group E heavyweights Belgium 2-0.
Giaccherini has hardly set the world alight in three years at Sunderland - and spent last season on loan at Serie A Bologna - but he ignited Italy's Euro 2016 challenge with a superb strike.
The winger coolly despatched a sublime ball over the top from Leonardo Bonucci in the first half, and Pelle volleyed a second in stoppage time to settle the eagerly-anticipated clash.
Belgium's big names failed to spark for much of the game, with Romelu Lukaku missing their best chance before he was substituted with 20 minutes remaining.
Who impressed us during a highly entertaining affair in Lyon? Was Giaccherini, Pelle or somebody else the star man for Conte's side? Take a look at the ratings gallery above to find out.
Do you agree with our scores? Let us know in the comments.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments