News Focus
- Italy secure second U17 European Championship in three years following 5-4 penalty shootout success
- Belgium took late lead through Noa Ojea Cobiella but Marcello Fugazzola converted crucial 90th-minute spot-kick
- Goalkeeper Christian Lupo emerged as hero with vital save in shootout after denying three penalties in semi-final
- Diego Perillo scored decisive penalty to complete comeback victory for the Azzurrini
Italy’s Under-17 national team lifted the European Championship trophy for the second time in three years on Sunday evening. The young Azzurri defeated Belgium in a tense final that concluded with a 5-4 penalty shootout victory after the match finished one goal apiece.
The contest remained goalless for most of the play despite several clear opportunities at both ends. Belgium created the first significant chance when Jayden Onia Seke forced a fine save from Italian keeper Christian Lupo, though Ilyas Benktib could not convert the rebound. Italy responded immediately as Lorenzo Dattilo tested Belgian goalkeeper Mattis Seghers, who produced an excellent diving stop to his right.
Seghers continued his impressive display before halftime, denying Federico Croci with another key save. After the interval, Belgium applied heavy pressure. Lupo stood firm between the posts, making crucial stops to prevent Onia Seke and Dierckx from finding the net.
Italian substitute Jacopo Landi brought fresh energy to the left wing during the final quarter-hour. However, he missed two golden opportunities, sending efforts over the crossbar in the 77th and 82nd minutes.
With just five minutes remaining, Belgium finally broke the deadlock. Noa Ojea Cobiella dribbled past an Italian defender on the right side and finished calmly at the far post. The goal appeared to seal victory for the Red Devils.
Yet Italy won a late penalty when Dierckx handled the ball inside the area. Marcello Fugazzola stepped forward and confidently converted the spot-kick in the 90th minute, despite Seghers guessing the correct direction.
The shootout began with Fugazzola scoring for Italy. Lupo then saved Ojea Cobiella’s attempt, continuing his remarkable record after saving three penalties in the semi-final against Spain. Edoardo Dario Rocca subsequently missed for Italy, dragging his shot wide. Belgium’s hopes faded when Tinus Moorthamer struck the crossbar with their fifth penalty. Diego Perillo, who had scored against France earlier in the tournament, secured the title with the final successful conversion.
Italy’s victory marks their second U17 European Championship triumph, adding to their success in 2024.