Italy Held to Frustrating Stalemate by Croatia at U19 EURO

FolioPitch.com – 02 July 2026 | The U19 EURO Italy held by Croatia in disappointing stalemate on Tuesday afternoon, as the Azzurrini failed to build on their opening win against Serbia. A 0-0 draw at the European Under-19 Championship in Wales leaves Italy needing a victory over Ukraine to secure a semi-final spot.

After a promising 2-0 victory over Serbia in their Group B opener, Italy came into the match against Croatia with confidence. However, they struggled to find their rhythm in a slow-paced encounter that lacked intensity. The U19 EURO Italy held by Croatia in disappointing stalemate was characterized by few clear chances and a lack of attacking flair from both sides.

Croatia had the better of the early exchanges, with Patrice Covic testing goalkeeper Massimo Pessina from distance. Italy’s best first-half effort came from Emanuele Sala, who blasted wide from outside the box. The heat in Caernarfon seemed to affect the players, with Italy particularly sluggish in possession.

In the second half, Italy showed signs of improvement. Mattia Mosconi came close with a diving header that went just wide, and Jamal Iddrissou forced a fine save from Croatia’s goalkeeper after connecting with a free kick from substitute Mattia Marello. But despite increased pressure, Italy could not find a breakthrough.

The U19 EURO Italy held by Croatia in disappointing stalemate means Italy now have four points from two matches, while Croatia have two points. With Ukraine already on three points after beating Croatia 3-1 in their opener, the Group B standings remain tight. Italy must beat Ukraine on July 5 to guarantee a place in the semifinals.

Coach Alberto Bollini will be concerned by his team’s inability to replicate the fluid attacking play they showed against Serbia. The midfield struggled to create opportunities, and the forwards lacked sharpness in front of goal. Croatia defended resolutely but offered little going forward themselves, making for a dour spectacle.

Italy’s starting lineup featured Pessina in goal, a back four of Nardin, Natali, Verde, and Cocchi (replaced by Marello), a midfield trio of Liberali (subbed by Comotto), Sala, and Coletta, and a front three of Wiafe (Idele), Iddrissou, and Mosconi (Arena). Croatia fielded Kostopec; Mikic, Zebic, Puljic, Mandic; Smiljanic (Chelfi), Subotic (Zrilic), Covic, Sutalo; Kusanovic (Baric), Bakovic (Simic).

To advance, Italy must rediscover their attacking verve against a Ukraine side that will be fighting for a win to keep their own hopes alive. The U19 EURO Italy held by Croatia in disappointing stalemate serves as a wake-up call for the Azzurrini, who cannot afford another subpar performance.

In conclusion, Italy’s draw with Croatia leaves their semifinal fate in their own hands, but time is running out to correct their flaws. The team will need a sharp turnaround to overcome a dangerous Ukraine side and avoid an early exit from the tournament.