Italy U19 falls at its best: Spain in final

Italy-Spain 0-1 d.t.s.

The dream of Italy U19 to repeat its success at the European Under-19 Championship in Northern Ireland faded on the brightest of days. In fact, the Azzurrini, holders of the title won a year ago in Malta with Portugal, surrendered in the semifinals to Spain, which won 1-0 after extra time thanks to Fortuny’s decisive goal in the 100th minute.

Italy got off to a good start and on 14' went close to taking the lead with a free kick on the turn from Pafundi's edge that grazed the post to Jimenez's right. It is Corradi’s men who make the match: on 23' nice exchange between Lipardi and Camarda but the midfielder’s last touch è too long and allows Jimenez to make the ball his own. In the final Spain chance with a right-footed shot from the edge by Bravo, just wide.

At the start of the second half, a very good chance for Italy with Zeroli who, found splendidly by Bartesaghi, wastes everything from a favorable position by kicking wide. On 68' Pafundi also failed to materialize, having his attempt rejected at the first post by Jimenez. The game is not unblocked and so it goes to overtime.

È Italy again made itself dangerous in 93'with Ebone trying to surprise Jimenez with a lob but his conclusion grazed the post. Soì at 100' Spain punishes: great filtering of Mella for Diaz, who crosses in tow for Fortuny, who beats Marin and gives the final to the Red Furies.