Italy edge out England
Sunday, May 8, 2005
Article summary
England 0-1 Italy Andrea Russotto's first-half penalty gives the hosts a semi-final berth as Group A winners.
Article body
By Paul Saffer at Stadio Simone Redini
Hosts Italy hit form to eliminate England and claim first place in UEFA European Under-17 Championship Group A.
Netherlands semi-final
Andrea Russotto's penalty late in the first half was the only goal, but Italy were on top throughout just three days after losing to Belarus, and finish above Turkey on head-to-head record. They now face a semi-final against the Netherlands on Wednesday for which goalkeeper Enrico Alfonso will be suspended after a late red card.
Personnel changes
Both these sides followed up opening wins with defeats on Thursday and each coach made changes. Italy's Francesco Rocca brought in Manuel Angelucci in defence and Marco Mancosu and Michael Cia into midfield, while England's John Peacock brought back midfield duo Lewis McGugan and Scott Phelan.
Tight opening
Salvatore Foti had the first real shot of the game, but the early exchanges were tight. A Simone Palermo shot from distance did not overly trouble David Button, and indeed neither goalkeeper was busy in the first half-hour.
Russotto converts
But in the 34th minute Italy had a penalty when Daniele Greco was brought down by Elliot Omozusi and Russotto converted with ease. England pushed in vain for an equaliser before the break, Walcott curling a free-kick not far over on the whistle.
Saving tackle
Moments into the second half Button had to emerge swiftly to grab the ball at the feet of Russotto, and Italy signalled their intent not to sit on the 1-0 lead, England captain Michael Mancienne making a superb saving tackle on Foti.
Mancosu denied
Marco Mancosu forced a save from Button, and moments later Russotto a had a goal ruled out for offside after following up on a Michael Cia effort. England perked up after that let-off, and Joe Garner twice went close.
Alfonso off
As the game entered added time Alfonso was dismissed for dissent, and England had one last desperate push, Garner heading over. But Italy held on and an English campaign that began so brightly with a 4-0 win against Belarus is over.