Italy go into the European Under-19 Championship unbeaten after notching up five wins and today’s 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic.
The Azzurrini already secured qualification for the tournament, to be held in Finland from July 16-29, regardless of the result this afternoon.
Benevento forward Enrico Brignola opened the scoring just 10 minutes in at the Dacia Arena in Udine with a header on Capone’s cross, but Sipek snatched an equaliser in the final moments.
Italy go into the European Under-19 Championship unbeaten after notching up five wins and today’s 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic.
The Azzurrini already secured qualification for the tournament, to be held in Finland from July 16-29, regardless of the result this afternoon.
Benevento forward Enrico Brignola opened the scoring just 10 minutes in at the Dacia Arena in Udine with a header on Capone’s cross, but Sipek snatched an equaliser in the final moments.
Italy still win their group comfortably on seven points, ahead of Poland on four, Greece three and the Czech Republic two.
“I must thank the lads who gave themselves over to trying some new positions and ideas,” said Coach Paolo Nicolato.
“It’s over the top to say we’re favourites to win the Euros, but we have always shown good quality football and will cause everyone we face problems.
“We closed the Elite phase with five wins and only one draw, so I am satisfied. An error can happen every now and then, but the team has a positive and attacking attitude.”
Italy 1-1 Czech Rep
Brignola 10 (I), Sipek 85 (C)
Italy: Cerofolini; Bellanova, Candela, Del Prato, Mallamo; Tonali, Marcucci, Melegoni; Capone, Scamacca (Pinamonti 83), Brignola