Belgium coach Marc Wilmots was pleased with the response of his side as they came from behind to beat Italy 3-1 in their friendly in Brussels on Friday.

The side newly ranked as the world’s best conceded to Antonio Candreva after just three minutes at the King Baudouin Stadium but quickly levelled through Jan Vertonghen.

Italy did have other good chances but Belgium dominated the second half and won with goals from Kevin De Bruyne and substitute Michy Batshuayi in the last 16 minutes.

Wilmots told reporters: “Italy are a difficult team and after going 1-0 behind we picked up collectively very well.

“We took risks to push forward and it was a real contest. I think any (neutral) spectators would have enjoyed the game.

“But we deserved to win and I saw players who gave everything. The Italians did have chances but Simon Mignolet performed well. I’m very happy for him, because it has not always been easy.”

Mignolet, the oft-maligned Liverpool goalkeeper produced a fine save from Graziano Pelle with the score at 2-1 while Eder earlier hit the crossbar and then headed the rebound over.

Italy coach Antonio Conte felt his team performed creditably despite ultimately being undone.

Conte said: “We were facing a team that is overflowing with talent, but I remain satisfied with the performance of my lads.

“The (key) incidents didn’t go our way, as we hit the bar and missed the rebound, while we made this (mistake due to) distraction and the game changed.

“I had said beforehand the result would not change our path. Our ambition is to work hard and get the best out of this squad.”