New Delhi: Daniel Maldini’s debut in the Nations League makes him the third generation from his family to represent Italy. After father Paolo and grandfather Cesare, the midfielder has now played in a 4-1 win over Israel, becoming the first family with three generations to play for the Azzuri side.
Maldini’s father, Paolo, who was in Udine stadium watching the game, had played for Italy 126, while his grandfather had played in 14 games. Like his father and grandfather, the 23-year-old had previously played with AC Milan for four seasons. This year, he made his move to Monza.
💙🇮🇹 Paolo Maldini’s son Daniel makes his debut for Italy in Udine, same pitch where Paolo made his debut as Milan legend.
It’s first time ever in Italy history to see three players from same family wear the Azzurri shirt (Cesare, Paolo, Daniel Maldini). pic.twitter.com/ubAZ9QHz7G
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 14, 2024
Maldini replaced Giacomo Raspadori with just 16 minutes left in the game. Later, he revealed his “positive feeling” about the game. He was very grateful that the game had seen an Italian victory and that his parents were there to witness the historic moment. Talking about the game, Maldini felt that Italy were in control for the most part of the game.
Italy’s convincing win over Israel
Once Israel had scored, Maldini felt some pressure, but Italy did well to climb back into the game. The Milan graduate concluded that he hoped to serve Lucian Spalletti’s side the way the team required him to. Apart from Maldini, Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca also made his debut, coming off the bench to play for the first time at the senior level.
Italy broke the deadlock in the 41st minute with Mateo Retegui’s successful penalty take. Giovanni di Lorenzo’s brace and Davide Frattesi’s 72nd-minute goal ensured that the home side won the game 4-1. For Israel, Mohamed Abu Fani scored the only goal for the Israel side, playing their first game outside Hungary in 2024.
Daniel Maldini’s debut for the Italy marks the first time three generations of the same family have represented the Azzuri team. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
