Italy are through to the Under-20 World Cup quarter-finals after beating England 2-1 with goals from Tommaso Baldanzi and Chelsea-owned Cesare Casadei.
The Azzurrini managed to take an early lead in this evening’s Round of 16 tie in Argentina, as Empoli midfielder Baldanzi struck only eight minutes into the match when sent through by Giuseppe Ambrosino’s inspired pass.
Alfie Devine managed to draw England level on a cross from his Tottenham teammate Dane Scarlett, but with extra time looming, Casadei converted a penalty to give Italy the victory.
It was awarded using a VAR review following Jarell Quansah’s handling offence.
This means Casadei is the current top scorer of the Under-20 World Cup, the Inter youth product sold to Chelsea and currently on loan at Reading.
After their success in the EURO 2020 Final, it is another chance for Italy to eliminate England in a knockout competition.
The Azzurrini will face Colombia in the quarter-finals, who demolished Slovakia 5-1 this evening, on Saturday kicking off at 22.00 UK time.
Nigeria eliminated hosts Argentina with a 2-0 result and Brazil crushed Tunisia 4-1.
England 1-2 Italy
Baldanzi 8 (I), Define 24 (E), Casadei pen 87 (I)