The U18s, bronze medallists at the most recent World Cup in their age group, played out a 2-2 draw with Ukraine at the Riano Athletic Center in the first match of the friendly double-header between the sides. The Azzurrini went behind to an opener from Wisła Kraków midfielder Maksym Tsybaliuk but drew level through Monza forward Christian Fogliaro (22’). Italy then fell behind again in first-half stoppage time (45+1’), when Dynamo Kyiv midfielder Pavlo Liusin found the net. In the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time, Italy found a late equaliser thanks to a penalty calmly converted by Como midfielder Alessio Baralla.

“We’re trying out some new lads because we’re halfway through the season and need to rebuild – partly on our own merit, given that several players have made their first-team debuts, and partly through bad luck, as we’ve picked up a few injuries,” said Massimiliano Favo. “The squad isn’t the one we’ve worked with up to now, but I’m pleased because the team’s identity has remained the same. We conceded two avoidable goals from the only two times our opponents really threatened us. We need to improve in front of goal, because controlling the game has now become our trademark. There are plenty of new faces, and I’m largely satisfied with their performances. Now, we need to keep working and fine-tuning things, while trying to get back a few lads who weren’t able to join us. I’m also pleased for those who have stepped up into the U19 set-up, because we work for the good of the Federation. That’s a source of great pride and shows we’ve done well. Now, we need to begin a new cycle with different players, but I believe we have some very promising lads.”

The Azzurrini will return to action in Riano at 11:00 CET on Thursday against their Ukrainian counterparts for the second and final friendly on the schedule. “We’ll give game time to those who played few minutes today and to those who didn’t feature at all,” concluded the head coach. “There are some quality players who need to get to know me, my staff, and the way we play, and we need to get to know them as well.”