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Italy U21 is now just one step away from qualifying for the next UEFA European Under-21 Championship, set to take place in Slovakia from June 11 to 28, 2025. The Azzurrini, coached by Carmine Nunziata, need just a single point in their direct clash against Ireland (scheduled for October 15) to secure their place in the tournament.
The young Italian side has secured two wins in just five days, following up their emphatic victory over San Marino with a commanding 3-0 triumph over Norway. The match was never in doubt, with Italy leading 1-0 at halftime thanks to a goal from Baldanzi, who coolly beat the opposing goalkeeper with a delicate left-footed finish.
In the second half, the 2003-born Roma forward struck again in the 72nd minute, capitalizing on a perfect assist from Ruggeri to send the ball under the crossbar, and then completed his hat-trick in the 80th minute with a curling left-footed shot from outside the box, marking his first treble for the Italy U21 team.
In Italy’s Group A, Ireland was held to a 2-2 draw at home against Latvia, while Turkey thrashed San Marino 6-1. In other groups, Spain and the Netherlands have already qualified for the finals; Germany, defending champions England, who will face Ukraine for the top spot, and Portugal are also close to securing their spots.
