In Novi Sad, the Under 18 National Team beat their peers from Serbia 2-1 in the second friendly match between the two, after first ended 1-1 two days ago. An excellent performance, that of Daniele Franceschini's team, who took the lead in the first half thanks to a shot by Riccardo Pagano, Roma midfielder, who stuck the ball right under the crossbar. Five minutes into the second half, Petkovic's Serbia drew level from a corner kick situation, but Juventus' Giulio Doratiotto's goal decided the game for the Azzurrini, at the end of a nice piece of play involving Ndour, Accornero, and Vignato.

FLORENCE, ITALY - AUGUST 12: Daniele Franceschini manager gestures of Italy U18 between match Italy U18 and Albania U18 at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on August 12, 2021 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY - AUGUST 12: Daniele Franceschini manager gestures of Italy U18 between match Italy U18 and Albania U18 at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on August 12, 2021 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY - AUGUST 12: Daniele Franceschini manager gestures of Italy U18 between match Italy U18 and Albania U18 at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on August 12, 2021 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

"We’re very satisfied because it was a beautiful match, played at high intensity", commented Franceschini at the end of the match. "The boys showed great quality of play and, particularly in the first half, we deserved a little more. I'm happy with the excellent performance and, in general, the growth is clear. We’re confidently looking forward to the next matches". The Under 18 team will be back on the pitch on 11 and 13 November for a double test against France.