Italy out of Under-20 World Cup after defeat on penalties to Denmark

Italy out of Under-20 World Cup after defeat on penalties to Denmark Italy have failed to qualify for the Under-20 World Cup, having been the Finalists in 2023, losing in a penalty shoot-out to Denmark after their exit from the Under-19 European Championship. The Azzurrini had started so strong and been among the favourites to win the tournament in Wales. Italy U19 crumble in Wales epa10750248 Alberto Bollini, head coach of Italy arrives at the match venue ahead of the 2023 UEFA European Under-19 Championship final soccer match between Portugal and Italy at the National Stadium in Ta� Qali, Malta, 16 July 2023. EPA-EFE/Domenic Aquilina They beat Serbia 2-0 in the opening group game, but were then held to a 0-0 draw by Croatia and lost the final match 1-0 to Ukraine on Sunday. By finishing third in the group, Italy still had the opportunity to earn a place in the Under-20 World Cup in 2027. They faced off with Denmark in this afternoon’s play-off, which could not find a breakthrough even after extra time at 0-0. It went to penalties, where Massimo Pessina saved from Alfred Gothler, but then Andrea Natali was denied too. It went to sudden death, where Destiny Elimoghale blasted over the bar, allowing Simon Stuker to win it for Denmark.