Lorenzo Pellegrini Receives Controversial Red Card During Italy vs. Belgium Match

During a tense UEFA Nations League match at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy’s Lorenzo Pellegrini made headlines by becoming the first Italian player to receive a red card since Leonardo Bonucci‘s send-off in a game against Spain on October 6, 2021. The incident occurred while Italy was comfortably leading 2-0 against Belgium, following goals by Andrea Cambiaso and Mateo Retegui.

The turning point came at the 40th minute when Pellegrini, in a bid to intercept the ball, executed a sliding tackle on Belgium’s Arthur Theate. The tackle appeared reckless and dangerous, leading to the potential injury of Theate’s ankle. Initially, the referee showed Pellegrini a yellow card. However, after consultation with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and an on-field review of the incident, the card was upgraded to a straight red, much to the dismay of the Azzurri supporters.

This dismissal not only left Italy to play with ten men for the remainder of the match but also subjected Pellegrini to boos from the crowd as he exited the field. This marks a difficult period for the AS Roma captain, who has been under scrutiny since the departure of his club coach, Daniele De Rossi.

With this red card being Pellegrini’s first in his international career, it ensured he would miss Italy’s upcoming Nations League fixture against Israel. Despite his 36 caps for the national team, where he has contributed six goals and two assist, this incident has marred his reputation on the international stage.

The red card not only affects Pellegrini’s personal record but also adds pressure on the Italian team, who must adapt quickly to playing a man down. Coach Luciano Spalletti will likely have to re-strategize to compensate for Pellegrini’s absence in the next fixture.