WOMEN WOMEN
Mission accomplished: U20 national team tops, but round of 16 uncertain
Mission accomplished for the U20 National Team: after finishing first in the group unbeaten, thanks to the 1‑1 draw against Japan, the Azzurrine are preparing for the round of 16 on September 16 at 18:30 in Sosnowiec, where they will face the third‑placed team from another group.
With two results out of three available, the Azzurrine have overcome Japan and the United States, finishing first in the group. It is the first time in history that the Italian women's Under‑20 national team has topped its group.
The FIGC stated:
"A draw that feels like triumph, thanks to the 1‑1 with Japan the women's Under‑20 national team finishes its group in first place."The note highlights the importance of the result achieved against Japan.
Coach Nicola Matteucci described the group as "very tough, composed of high‑quality teams" and expressed pride for the first place. "The girls have outdone themselves and have shown they are a great squad," he added.
The future in Sosnowiec
On Wednesday, September 16 at 18:30, the Azzurrine will begin the knockout phase of the World Cup in Sosnowiec. The opponent will be the third‑placed team from Group E or F, potentially Colombia, Portugal, China or Nigeria.
Caterina Venturelli, a Sassuolo player, has returned to the squad after serving a two‑match suspension, taking up the centre‑back position. "We are a truly strong and very united team," she said, thanking her teammates for the support.
Paola Fadda scored the opening goal from a penalty at the start of the second half. On the field, captain Gallo was forced to leave due to injury, replaced by Bressan; Tosello and Testa are absent for health reasons.
Japanese coach Ijiri fielded only five players, while Italy limited the opponent's depth with a solid defence. The early chances of the match belonged to Japan, but the Italian defence kept control.
The contrast between the certainty of an unbeaten top spot and the uncertainty of the round‑of‑16 opponent highlights the challenge awaiting the Azzurrine, ready to demonstrate once again their quality.