Italy U17 has clinched their second European Championship title in three years, triumphing over Belgium in a penalty shootout during the final.
This victory marks Italy’s second-ever win in the U17 European Championship, achieved after defeating Belgium on penalties on Sunday.
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The match got off to an energetic start, with Belgium creating an early opportunity. Christian Lupo denied Jayden Onia Seke, and a rebound effort from Ilyas Benktib also failed to find the back of the net.
Italy responded quickly as Lorenzo Dattilo had a chance just a minute later, but his powerful right-footed shot was expertly saved by Mattis Seghers.
Seghers came through again with another crucial save just before halftime, stopping a shot from Federico Croci.
Belgium ramped up the pressure in the second half, with Lupo making several critical saves to thwart attempts from Onia Seke and Dierckx.
Substitute Jacopo Landi, who came on for the last 25 minutes, made an impact down the left side but was unable to convert two decent chances, firing over the bar in the 77th and 82nd minutes.
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Just when it seemed the Azzurri’s hopes were dashed, a handball from Dierckx in the box set up a penalty for Italy. Marcello Fugazzola confidently converted it, equalizing despite Seghers diving the correct way.
Fugazzola also netted Italy’s first penalty in the shootout, while Lupo saved Ojea Cobiella’s attempt.
Earlier in the tournament, Lupo had demonstrated his penalty-saving skills by stopping three penalties in the semifinal against Spain, including two in the penalty shootout.
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Edoardo Dario Rocca missed his chance as well, sending his shot wide of the target.
Belgium faltered again when Tinus Moorthamer hit the crossbar with their fifth penalty attempt.
Finally, Diego Perillo, who had scored Italy’s opening goal in this U17 European Championship against France, stepped up to convert the decisive penalty, securing Italy’s second U17 European title. Italy’s first victory came in 2024.
Euro U17 Final: Belgium 4-5 Italy after penalty shootout
Goals: 85′ Ojea (B), 90′ Fugazzola (I)
Belgium (4-2-3-1): Seghers; Moorthamer, Mbavu, Bloondeel, El Morabet; Van Gelder, Dierckx; Onia Seke (83′ Achabar), Driessen (72′ Ojea), Nga Kana; Benktib.
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Italy (4-3-1-2): Lupo; Bonifazi, Diallo, Varali, Dattilo (87′ Dattilo); Gasparello (58′ Ballarin), Okon, Biondini (87′ Fugazzola); Corigliano (67′ Landi); Perillo, Croci (58′ Casagrande).
THE Azzurrini ARE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS! 🇮🇹