Italy U17 recorded a big 4-2 win over Germany at the Sportpark Nord in Bonn. The Azzurrini scored through Matteo Di Nunzio (Roma), Mattia Mosconi (Inter) and the 2008-born Francesco Camarda (AC Milan), who bagged himself a brace. After this result and the win over Denmark, who beat Israel 2-0, the Azzurrini secured the Elite League title.

"We played well," said Massimiliano Favo. "Italy vs Germany is also a huge game. Games like this help you to assess the boys ahead of the first round of qualifying for the Euros. Looking at the date from the Israel game, the result was deceptive. While against Denmark and Germany, we managed to impose our game despite the difficulties."

"Certain results seem banal," he continued, "but, in reality, there's a lot of hard work that goes into it. Let's not forget that these boys have grown together, with different coaches but under the supervision of us all, starting with our co-ordinator. We're pleased as of right now but our aim is to go as far as possible at the Euros."

THE GAME. The Azzurrini, after conceding early to the German-America, Montrell Culbreath (Bayer Leverkusen), equalised in the 22nd minute through Di Nunzio. Six minutes later, Ken Izekor (Bayer Leverkusen) restored the hosts' lead. Italy didn't take it as a knock-out blow and pulled themselves level again through Mosconi on the stroke of half time. Camarda shone brightest after the break, scoring a brace with a penalty and then a late goal.

Elite League results and standings

MATCHDAY 1 (Thursday 7 September)

Germany 3-2 Israel
ITALY 3-1 Denmark

Matchday 2 (Saturday 9 September)

Israel 4-1 ITALY
Germany 0-2 Denmark

Matchday 3 (Tuesday 12 September)

Germany 2-4 ITALY
Denmark 2-0 Israel

Standings: ITALY and Denmark 6 points, Germany and Israel 3.