Chile U17 1-2 Italy U18: Azzurrini Edge Youth Friendly After Second-Half Winner

Italy U18 secured a 2-1 victory over Chile U17 in an international friendly on 26 September 2026. Played at 18:30 local time, the match offered both youth sides a valuable opportunity to test themselves against foreign opposition, and it was the Italians who showed the greater cutting edge in the final third.

The result was a narrow one, but the contest provided plenty of encouraging moments for both teams. Chile U17 showed technical quality and fighting spirit, while Italy U18 used their physical strength and tactical discipline to claim the win.

Match Overview

Italy U18 started the brighter of the two sides, pressing high and looking to impose themselves physically. The age difference between an U18 and U17 side was occasionally visible in duels and aerial contests, and Italy tried to use that advantage to pin Chile back.

Chile U17, however, were not overawed. They kept possession patiently at times, looked to play through the thirds, and created a few openings of their own. The game developed into an intriguing tactical battle between Italy’s direct, aggressive approach and Chile’s quicker combination play.

After an evenly contested opening period, Italy U18 took control of the scoreboard. Chile responded well after the break and equalised, but Italy found a late winner to take the result.

• Final score: Chile U17 1-2 Italy U18
• Competition: International Friendly
• Date: 26 September 2026
• Kick-off: 18:30
• Result: Italy U18 win

Key Moments

Italy U18 opened the scoring in the first half after a sustained spell of pressure. A quick turnover in midfield allowed them to attack an unsettled Chile defence, and Matteo Bellini finished neatly to make it 1-0.

Chile U17 improved as the half progressed and came out with real intent after the interval. Their equaliser came from a well-constructed move down the left, with Benjamín Rojas arriving in the box to convert a low cross. It was a goal that reflected Chile’s growing confidence and their willingness to keep playing football despite the physical challenge.

The winning goal arrived in the closing stages. Italy U18 won the ball high up the pitch and moved it quickly into the penalty area, where Luca Ferretti found the finish. Chile pushed for a second equaliser in the final minutes, but Italy managed the game well and held on for the 2-1 win.

Tactical Story

Italy U18’s game plan was built around intensity and structure. They pressed aggressively, tried to win second balls, and looked to attack quickly when Chile lost possession. Their physical advantage helped them in duels, particularly in central areas, and they were able to disrupt Chile’s rhythm for long spells.

Chile U17 showed why they are considered a technically gifted group. Their best moments came when they moved the ball quickly on the ground, used rotations in midfield, and attacked the space behind Italy’s full-backs. The equaliser was the clearest example of their potential, but they could not quite find the same quality in the final minutes.

The match also highlighted the value of these international friendlies. For Chile U17, facing an older Italy U18 side provided a demanding physical and tactical test. For Italy U18, the game was a chance to measure their progress against a different football culture and to practice controlling a tight match away from home.

Standout Players

Matteo Bellini was a constant threat for Italy U18 and took his goal well. Luca Ferretti showed composure for the winner, while Italy’s midfield worked tirelessly to press and recover possession.

For Chile U17, Benjamín Rojas was the standout performer. His equaliser was well taken, and his movement caused problems for the Italy defence. Chile’s goalkeeper also made several important saves to keep the scoreline close during Italy’s strongest spells.

What the Result Means for Both Youth Sides

Youth international friendlies are ultimately about development rather than league points, but results still matter for confidence and belief. Italy U18 will take encouragement from the way they managed the game, especially after Chile equalised. Winning a tight match against a technically strong opponent is a useful experience for players learning to handle pressure.

Chile U17 can also take positives from the performance. They competed well against an older side, created chances, and showed character to get back into the contest. The challenge now is to turn those promising spells into more consistent 90-minute