Early morning October 15 (Vietnam time), the Italian team will host the Israeli team in the fourth match of the UEFA Nations League A group stage.
The Azzurri won 4-1, thereby maintaining the top position in Group A2 with 10 points, 1 point more than the French team - the team won 2-1 on the field of the Belgian team.
In the joy of Azzurri's victory, a highlight was marked by the appearance of Daniel Maldini, when he entered the field to replace Giacomo Raspadori with 16 minutes left of regular time.
Daniel is the son of Paolo Maldini, grandson of Cesare Maldini. That means that for the first time in history, three generations of one family have represented the Italian national team.
Paolo was in the stands at the Bluenergy stadium in Udine to watch the match.
"It's a strong and positive feeling," Maldini Jr. said.
"I'm glad I came on and the game went well. I'm glad my parents came to watch. I'll talk to them when I get home."
Like his late grandfather Cesar and father Paolo, Daniel grew up in AC Milan's training academy, was promoted to the Rossoneri's first team in 2020 and had 15 matches.
The attacking midfielder born in 2001 was loaned to Spezia, Empoli and Monza in the past 2 years, before his contract with Monza was officially changed in July this year.
This 2024-2025 season, Daniel Maldini has made 7 appearances for Monza. The member of the Italy U18, U19, U20 teams was called up to the national team for the first time this October and made his debut.
At first, Daniel also played as a defender like Paolo and Cesare, but gradually moved to the role of an attacking midfielder, which suited his organizational skills, dribbling, control and tactical vision.
Legend Paolo Maldini played for the Italian national team from 1988 to 2002, with a total of 126 matches (scoring 7 goals).
Meanwhile, Cesare Maldini only played for the national team for 3 years (from 1960 to 1963), with 14 matches. He passed away in April 2016.
