Italy overturn early deficit to stun USA at U‑20 Women’s World Cup

Italy's under‑20 women turned a 1‑0 deficit into a 2‑1 comeback victory over the United States on 6 June in Poland, securing the Italian side's first ever win at the FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup and their first appearance in the tournament since 2012.

U-20女子ワールドカップ2026（U-20女子W杯）グループD第1節、U-20アメリカ女子代表対U-20イタリア女子代表の試合が現地時間6日にポーランドで行われ、イタリアが2-1で逆転勝利した。2012年大会以来14年ぶりに本大会へ出場したイタリアは、優勝候補の一角であるアメリカを破り、U-20女子ワ杯本大会で史上初となる勝利を手にしている。

Photo credit goes to Getty Images. 【Images】

Early United States lead

The United States opened the scoring in the 18th minute. Emeli Adem surged down the left flank and delivered a low ball into the box; the goalkeeper parried it and Michele Johnson slotted the rebound with her left foot. The Americans later struck the cross‑bar, but could not add to their lead.

Italy equalise before half‑time

Italy responded just before the break, with Karen Appia's shot saved and the rebound falling to Paola Fadda, who pushed the ball home in the 40th minute to level the match at 1‑1. The half‑time whistle restored parity after a tense first half.

Second‑half turnaround

In the 59th minute, Julia Galli broke down the left side and the United States goalkeeper failed to control the ball, allowing Jarda Pellegrino Chimo to tap in the rebound for a 2‑1 lead. The United States pressed for an equaliser in added time, but a goal was ruled offside after VAR confirmation, preserving Italy's advantage.

The win marked Italy's first victory in the history of the U‑20 Women’s World Cup and their first tournament appearance since 2012, ending a 14‑year absence. It also knocked out one of the favourites, the United States, who have won the competition three times.

In the same group, Japan's under‑20 women defeated New Zealand 2‑1, giving Japan and Italy three points each, while the United States and New Zealand remain on zero. The group now sees Italy set to face New Zealand in the next round, with the United States taking on Japan.