U20 Malagò: bitterness over fourth place after penalty shootout

Italy women's Under‑20 finished fourth at the World Cup, losing on penalties to Colombia in the third‑place match. The FIGC president, Giovanni Malagò, called the result a bitter disappointment, but highlighted the extraordinary growth of the team's journey.

"The fourth place inevitably leaves a bit of bitterness, especially after a match decided once again on penalties, but it cannot and must not erase the extraordinariness of the path taken by our girls," said Malagò, president of the FIGC.

"It was a historic tournament for Italy, a result that confirms the growth and quality of the blue women's football movement. To all the girls, the staff, and those who have worked every day for this result, my thanks and my pride," he added.

The Coach's Perspective

Coach Nicola Matteucci said "the saddest thing is to see the girls upset" and recalled that the team had earned the final, playing with great heart and competitiveness.

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Matteucci went on to explain that they were unable to finish the game in 90 minutes nor in 120, adding that "penalties become a lottery".

He concluded by stating that the tournament showcased the value of the team and the players: "they are reliable girls, who never betray expectations, putting everything they have on the field, both on a human level as well as technically".

In the official summary the wording "20 Colombia" appears, confirming Colombia's victory on penalties.

Malagò concluded by expressing pride for the achieved result and thanked everyone for their commitment, looking with confidence to the future of Italian women's football.