The Under-16 National Team showed determination and character to come from behind to draw 3-3 in the first match of their friendly double-header against Germany. At the Enwag Stadion in Wetzlar, where the teams took to the pitch with a banner promoting peace, the hosts went 2-0 up with goals shortly before and after half-time. Both were scored by Borussia Dortmund winger Kabar Almugera from corners.

Italy didn’t give up, however, reducing the arrears thanks to a great bit of individual play from Milan striker Filippo Scotti. The match was an even and exciting affair, with Paris Josua Brunner, another young Borussia Dortmund talent, restoring the Germans’ two-goal advantage. It seemed all over, but Germany weren’t counting on Federico Ragnoli Galli stepping up. The Atalanta striker scored with a fine curling effort to make it 3-2 and then, shortly afterwards, he took full advantage of a mistake by the home side’s goalkeeper to bag his second and Italy’s third.

“I’m very happy with the response of the lads,” said Head Coach Daniele Zoratto. “It isn’t easy to come from two goals down away to Germany. Their third goal really could have taken it out of us, but we managed to respond by continuing to play and attack our opponents. Both teams had an equal number of chances, but it must be said that, compared to us, they have a bigger physical presence, something which gives them a significant advantage from set-plays.” The two sides will meet again at the same stadium on Tuesday: “There are new faces we need to have a look at,” Zoratto continued. “I’ll give them playing time because only in matches like this is it possible to understand whether a player is ready to play at international level or not.”