England & Italy Under-19s Share Stalemate

England and Italy’s Under-19 European Championship hopes both hang in the balance following a goalless draw in their second group game in the Czech Republic last night.

Jul 18, 2008 10:51:02 AM

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The Three Lions came into the Group B match knowing that if they lost they were out of the competition following their opening day 2-0 defeat to the Czech hosts. Italy, on the other hand, drew their opener 1-1 with Greece, with Albert Paloschi equalising in the 89th minute.

England enjoyed most of the possession during the game, but in truth there were few clear cut chances for either side.

Daniel Sturridge and Freddie Sears both had half chances for the English, while Italian goalkeeper Vincenzo Fiorillo was forced into a fine save from Arsenal starlet Kieran Gibbs.

Italy striker Stefano Chuka Okaka almost had an opening for Italy but was denied by a Benjamin Mee intervention. Siena young gun Fernando Forestieri of Siena also saw the door shut by Krystian Pearce.

The final round of group games are on Sunday, and following Greece and the Czech Republic’s draw, Italy know that they have to win against the hosts to ensure qualification for the semi finals.

England, meanwhile, have to beat Greece, and hope that Italy do not win their game, in order to go through.

Anthony Sormani