Following the 1-1 against France in the Torneo Val de Marne in November, this was the second consecutive draw for the Italy U16s who fought back for a 1-1 against Portugal in the first of two friendlies in Vendas Novas. After going behind in the 52nd minute through Benfica forward Bernardo Nunes, Juventus player Thomas Corigliano made it level in the 83rd minute.

Head Coach Marco Scarpa: “The game was affected by the wind, especially in the first half, the ball’s trajectory was not usual. We went behind from a situation we should have handled better but we did well to level the score. Overall, it was a good draw against a very technical opponent and the lads put in a great reaction”.

Italy will play Portugal again in Vendas Novas on Thursday 19 December at 12:30 CET. Scarpa added: “In the second game, we will completely change the starting XI because the aim of these friendlies is to help all the lads to grow, giving them experience on an international level”.