The Under-16 National Team suffered a 5-2 defeat to France in the opening game of the UEFA Tournament, which is being held in Antalya, Turkey. Although the loss was a heavy one, the Azzurrini didn't have much luck, hitting the woodwork on three occasions. 

Makengo initially put Les Bleus ahead in the 11th minute before Samake doubled their lead with 41 minutes on the clock. A goal from Mateso then followed before France scored a fourth and a fifth through Cher Ndour and Nicolò Ledonne. It was during the final stages that Tommaso Mancini stepped up to score a brace and salvage some pride for the Italian youngsters.

“We played well up until 2-0,” said Coach Daniele Zoratto. “From then on, we struggled from a psychological point of view. However, we were unfortunate. They managed to finish off their chances, while we failed in doing so. Currently, France are more advanced than us. We must work hard to close this gap.”

Italy will now face Paraguay on Monday afternoon before their match against Turkey on Wednesday at 15:30 local time (13:30 CET).

Schedule, results and standings

Matchday one (24 February)

ITALY 2-5 France 
Turkey vs. Paraguay
Standings: France 3 points, ITALY, Turkey and Paraguay 0

Matchday two (26 February)
Turkey vs. ITALY
Paraguay vs. France

Matchday three (29 February)
Paraguay vs. ITALY
Turkey vs. France