After the 3-1 win in the first friendly with England two days ago, this time around the two Under-16 sides battled out a 1-1 draw, giving Italy an unbeaten start to the new season. It was another scorching day at the Federal Technical Centre at Coverciano, but despite the temperatures both teams were able put on an entertaining and evenly-matched game. 

The first half went to the Azzurrini through Oliver Blini's (Empoli) opener, but the English replied after the break to equalise. However, Daniele Zoratto was satisfied with the draw: “Two positive tests," commented the Coach. "Compared with the first game, I saw an improvement in some situations from the lads today. In the first half, the players did well both in and out of possession; in the second, we struggled a bit because England had more fitness in their legs, but we knew from a physical and fitness point of view that they would be ahead of us. This group is very promising; I believe they have lots of room for development."

THE GAME. Zoratto made nine changes to the previous freidnly's starting eleven, with only Napoli midfielder Vincenzo Prisco and Empoli forward Oliver Blini getting the call again; it was Blini who broke the deadlock inside four minutes. Italy moved the ball around well and adopted a high press to stop the young Three Lions side from playing out from the back, risking several chances to concede a second in the opening half: Cristian Carrara (Inter) and Thomas Campaniello (Empoli) both coming close. But at the start of the second half from a corner, Huli (Juventus) misjudged the cross and Julienne headed home to make it 1-1. Lots of subs were then made - seven for Italy - and the hot weather started to take its toll as the game intensity dropped. The last chance fell to the feet of Inacio, but the English keeper blocked out the Atalanta striker's effort thus stopping him from grabbing his second goal in consecutive games.

The Under 16s are next back in action in Albir with two high-profile friendlies against Spain on 19 and 21 September: “We prefer to face high-level opposition to allow us to assess our lads: a player who can stand out and impose himself in these types are games are important," explained Zoratto.