Italy U19 Faces Denmark in World Cup Play-off Amidst European Championship Disappointment

Italy’s Under-19 squad is set to face Denmark in a UEFA play-off match, marking their first step towards qualification for the 2027 FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. This crucial fixture comes on the heels of their elimination from the ongoing European Championship in Wales.

The Azzurrini, managed by Alberto Bollini, were unable to secure a semi-final berth after a 1-0 defeat to Ukraine in their final group game. Despite a commendable performance and numerous scoring opportunities, a combination of missed chances and Croatia’s victory over Serbia saw Italy finish third in Group B with four points, level with Croatia but trailing on goal difference.

This play-off represents a new opportunity for the young Italian side to salvage their World Cup aspirations.

Key facts

Coach Bollini’s Perspective

Head coach Alberto Bollini acknowledged the disappointment of the European Championship exit but emphasized the team’s resilience. “I told the lads ‘well done’ for their conduct, attitude, and determination in this final phase,” Bollini stated in an interview with Vivo Azzurro TV. “Against Ukraine, we did everything possible to reach a semi-final we deserved. When a team dominates possession and creates so many chances, it means the performance was positive. The regret remains for not being able to convert the volume of play produced; we must take responsibility for that.”

Bollini highlighted the team’s morale-boosting efforts in the days leading up to the Denmark match. “The priority has been to regroup the team morally. The lads have reacted well, and now we are focused on a very important game.”

He expressed respect for the Danish opponent, noting their strong performance in a challenging elite round group. “Denmark has shown its worth by winning a difficult group in the elite phase, but our path has also been important. We will need to stay focused, implement our game plan, and give our all for this jersey. The stakes are very high: let’s approach it without anxiety and without fear.”

Player’s Outlook

Massimo Pessina, a goalkeeper born in 2007 and playing for Bologna, shared his perspective on the team’s current mood. “In the last few days, we’ve been a bit demoralized, but tomorrow there’s already a very important match. The group has returned to thinking positively.”

Pessina described Denmark as a strong team, recalling a past encounter: “They are compact and have good individual players. The important thing will be to stay focused for the entire match, and together we will find a way to win.” He also mentioned facing Denmark two years ago in the U17 European Championship semi-final, a match Italy won 1-0.

The Path to the World Cup

The winner of this play-off will advance to face the fourth-placed team from the upcoming U20 Asian Cup. This intercontinental play-off, a single-leg match with details yet to be finalized, will determine the final qualification spot for the 2027 World Cup.

Denmark’s Journey

Denmark, managed by Mads Kristensen, is making its third consecutive appearance in the U19 European Championship finals. Their qualification path included topping their first qualifying round group in Switzerland and subsequently winning their elite round group in the Czech Republic. A notable player in their squad is Hjalte Morel Lærke, a forward born in 2007 who plays for Lecce’s U20 team.

Historical Encounters

Italy and Denmark have met three times previously at the U19 level, with Italy holding a 2-1 advantage. The most recent encounter was in October 2018, where Italy secured a 1-0 victory.

The 2027 FIFA U20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

Source: FIGC – https://www.figc.it/it/nazionali/news/azzurrini-play-off-con-la-danimarca-verso-il-mondiale-bollini-giochiamo-senza-paura-s9dn8kot