At the Comunale di Caldiero, the Under-20 National Team recorded their first win in the 8 Nations Tournament, defeating Poland 2-0. This was an excellent performance, with Daniele Franceschini getting off to the perfect start after taking over from Paolo Nicolato earlier on this summer. Goals from Capone and Raspadori in either half proved decisive in a match where the Azzurrini could have scored more, but the Head Coach was nevertheless satisfied, particularly with the kind of game the team played over the course of the match: “During the first 15 minutes, the distances between the players weren’t quite right,” said Franceschini after the match. However, once the team began to move as a unit, our pressing game improved and we began to build up the play. I liked the attitude of the players and, all in all, the performance was a good one. We could have scored more, and from this point of view we need to improve. However, I’m satisfied: it was a good start.”

Daniele Franceschini opted for a 4-3-1-2 formation with Loria in goal, a backline consisting of Ferrarini, Bellodi, Delli Carri and Frabotta and Esposito in front of the defence alongside Portanova and Colpani. Alberico slotted in behind the front pairing of Raspadori and Capone.

After a hesitant start, Italy began to play with more structure. Midway through the half, the Azzurrini had chances to take the lead through both Capone and Salvatore Esposito, with the Chievo Verona midfielder, a dead-ball specialist, not quite being able to find the target with two free kicks. However, Italy did go ahead with 43 minutes on the clock through Christian Capone: Giacomo Raspadori’s excellent ball from the right flank was converted by the Perugia youngster to make it 1-0. After the restart, Sassuolo striker Raspadori went from provider to goalscorer as he found the back of the net with a great right-footed strike after the ball fell to him in the area with the Polish defence desperately trying to clear their lines. The Azzurrini kept coming forward and could have added to the scoreline though Olivieri, Portanova and Capone, but they had to settle for just the two in the end.

Along with the Head Coach, Filippo Corti performed his role as Delegation Head for the first time. Next up for Italy is a trip to Prestice to face the Czech Republic in their second 8 Nations Tournament game.

Italy’s 8 Nations Tournament fixture list

5 September: Italy 2-0 Poland
9 September: Czech Republic vs. Italy
10 October: Italy vs. England
15 October: Portugal vs. Italy
18 November: Italy vs. Switzerland
27 March: Germany vs. Italy
31 March: Italy vs. Netherlands