Italy’s U21 squad secured a dominant 4-0 away victory against Sweden, solidifying their second-place position in the European Under-21 Championship qualifiers. Luca Koleosho was a standout performer, netting two goals and providing an assist.
Building on a previous 4-0 win over North Macedonia, the Azzurrini entered the match still trailing group leaders Poland due to an earlier 2-1 loss. The only adjustments to the starting lineup from their last game saw Seydou Fini and Michael Kayode introduced.
Sweden initially posed a threat when Nils Zatterstrom’s header from a corner kick went directly to goalkeeper Lorenzo Palmisani. However, Italy soon earned a penalty after Zatterstrom fouled Luca Lipani. Luca Koleosho clinically converted the spot-kick in the 19th minute, placing it into the near bottom corner.
The goal opened the scoring floodgates. Moments later, in the 22nd minute, Koleosho capitalized on a loose ball in the attacking third, forcing an error from Hampus Skoglund with his aggressive press and subsequently scoring his second goal from open play.
Cher Ndour almost extended Italy’s lead to 3-0 around the half-hour mark, pushing a shot wide from six yards out after receiving a pass over the top.
After the break, Italy did find their third goal in the 50th minute when Koleosho delivered a precise through ball, allowing Ndour to break clear and calmly finish past the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation. The fourth goal came in the 63rd minute when Lipani connected with Davide Bartesaghi’s free-kick at the near post.
Pietro Comuzzo’s header from a corner narrowly missed the target. Later, Luigi Cherubini shot wide following a pull-back from Ndour. Despite these missed opportunities, Italy’s impressive goal difference was further enhanced by the comprehensive win.