The San Marino national team is chasing its first points in Nations League Group C. On Thursday, November 12, at 8:45 pm, the Titans will take on Belarus at the San Marino Stadium in their final home fixture of 2026, ahead of Sunday’s away trip to Helsinki on November 15.
Head coach Roberto Cevoli approaches the match with confidence, particularly after recent performances against Albania and Belarus that showed a braver national side capable of creating scoring chances.
“We come into this on the back of three positive performances, but we want something more,” the coach said at the pre-match press conference. The goal is to turn progress on the pitch into concrete results.
Cevoli welcomes back Tommaso Benvenuti and Andrea Contadini, both returning from lengthy injuries. Neither is yet at full fitness, but both are expected to contribute in upcoming matches.
Michele Cevoli, sidelined by a recent injury, and Giacopetti, who must serve a one-match suspension, remain unavailable. During the course of the competition the national team has also had to do without Berardi.
Despite the absences, the coach highlighted the growth shown by the younger players called upon to replace their more experienced teammates. “San Marino’s quality has risen considerably, and our recent performances are there to prove it,” Cevoli noted.
Among the most encouraging signs is the team’s new attacking mindset, with the side now seeking greater possession and trying to build play even against technically superior opponents.
This transformation was also praised by Lorenzo Lazzari, who scored the equalizer in the last match played in Tirana against Albania.
“The feeling ahead of this double header is good,” said the 2003-born midfielder, confirming the squad’s determination to fight for their chances against Belarus.
As for the starting lineup, Cevoli did not reveal his plans, particularly in attack, where Giacopetti’s absence could prompt some changes.
Twenty-three players have been called up for Thursday evening’s match. The game will be broadcast live and free-to-air on San Marino RTV, channel 550 on digital terrestrial television, with coverage in Italy and the Republic of San Marino.
