Bresciani's Azzurrini were defeated by Portugal. Today they compete for third place.

In the end, it was a play-off for third and fourth place, due to an obstacle, as has always been the case with the Portuguese school, almost insurmountable, but still a source of pride. Pierluigi Bresciani's Under-17 national team lost the semifinal 2-0 against Portugal and will play for the bronze medal at the European Championships in Gujan-Mestras, France. A one-two by Alfonso and Martim Oliveira at the end of the first half proved fatal. "Against them," admits 'Gigio' Bresciani, "we lost twice out of two, but the gap isn't that great. I'm very satisfied."

After the initial defeat, the 7-2 defeat by Spain came (Busani's illusory lead, before the Spanish "deluge" and the final goal by the talented Facchini of Forte dei Marmi), the only lapse in form that Bresciani also acknowledged: "Due to a general lack of determination," but then Rossini's style of play began to build. The impressive 3-0 victory over France, featuring all Versilia players, including Facchini, his teammate Giovannelli, and the Pumas Pesavento player, was followed by a resounding 8-1 defeat of Germany in the quarterfinals. An 8-1 victory decided by braces from Facchini and Fiorese, as well as goals from Pesavento, Biasini, and Bau Crisciotti. In short, the glass is half full, especially from the perspective of the Versilia team, especially considering the excellent performances of the Pumas-trained goalkeeper Davanzo.

Sergio Iacopetti