Italy U20 reaches a World milestone 90′ ahead of schedule. Sweden defeated. But now, focus on the European semifinal against France. The dream continues.

An emotion and a leap back in time
What a day, what emotions! Italy-Sweden ends 1-0 and that goal, the second in two games by Giada Pellegrino Cimò, opens the doors again to the Under 20 World Cup for the Azzurrine. Thirteen years after their only participation. Yes, you read that right: in 2026, in Poland, young Italy will once again make history in women’s football.

A victory worth more than three points. It’s a ticket to the future, a pass to the elite of world football. It’s the satisfaction of a growing movement. As FIGC President Gabriele Gravina said, “They are rewriting history, game after game.” And they are doing it on the field, with heart and a smile. A satisfaction for them and for us who have the privilege of following them.

The last time the Italy Under 20 Women’s team graced the world stage was in 2012. Many of the girls who now make up the “2006 National Team” were still children back then. There are even a few talents from 2007 ready to shine. Now they return, stronger and more aware. The long wait is over.

Italy U20 makes us dream and Gravina doesn’t hold back in his praise: “Extraordinary Azzurrine. Qualifying is an exceptional milestone that dignifies the entire movement. And look at the international ranking: in one year, from 20th to 5th place!”

Italy U20: how they secured qualification
In the second day of the Under 19 European Championship, in the heart of Poland (Stalowa Wola), a victory against Sweden was enough to secure one of the five UEFA spots for the 2026 World Cup. Said and done. The girls of Nicola Matteucci took the field with a 4-4-1-1 formation and a strong desire to win.

Mustafic in goal. Zamboni and Perselli on the wings. Ferraresi up front, with Pellegrino Cimò behind. And then? A physical battle against a tough, organized Sweden, led by the imposing Amelie Norén. First signs of Azzurri dominance. Fadda hits the post, then the pace picks up. Three consecutive corners and finally, at 37′, the scream that breaks the silence. Great initiative by Consolini, double attempt by Ferraresi, third attempt by Pellegrino Cimò who doesn’t miss. Italy in the lead!

In the second half, Mustafic gloves a venomous shot by Larsson. Meanwhile, Matteucci manages the substitutions well. Cherubini, Sciabica, Girotto, and Ventriglia provide new energy. The result remains unchanged. At the end, it’s the final whistle and an Italian celebration.

Coach Nicola Matteucci speaks almost like a proud father. “These are moments of great joy. The girls deserved it: they worked, helped each other, recovered the ball, and attacked more and more. And now we don’t stop: there’s France to face and another goal to achieve.” And FIGC President is not far behind. “Proud of the exponential growth. This is a movement that improves year after year.”

Next stop and upcoming events
Saturday, 16:00 in Rzeszow. Italy U20 will face France, already qualified. A draw is enough for Italy to advance to the European semifinals. But winning would secure the top spot in the group. Even in case of defeat, there are still chances: goal difference helps: +1 against Poland’s -6.

2025 is turning into a dream summer for Italian women’s football:
– Qualification for the Women’s U20 World Cup
– Qualification for the Women’s U17 World Cup
– In July, European Championship for the senior National Team coached by Andrea Soncin

Today, players born in 2006 and 2007 are writing a new chapter for Italian football. So young, but already so determined. So Forza Azzurrine! All of Italy watches, follows, and applauds you. And the best is yet to come.

Source link