Italy become European under-19 champions in Malta after narrow win over Portugal

Poland goalkeeper Oliwier Zych makes a save, following a shot on goal from Italy's Francesco Pio Esposito, during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Finals 2022/23 group A match between Italy and Poland at the National Stadium on July 9, 2023

Poland goalkeeper Oliwier Zych makes a save, following a shot on goal from Italy's Francesco Pio Esposito, during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Finals 2022/23 group A match between Italy and Poland at the National Stadium on July 9, 2023 Credit: (Photo by Seb Daly - Sportsfile/UEFA via Getty Images)

Andrew Dempsey reports from the National Stadium, Ta’ Qali

Italy have won the under-19 European Championship for the first time since 2003 after they overcame Portugal 1-0 in the decider.

Alberto Bollini’s side came into the final as rank outsiders to lift the trophy, but they came out on top thanks to a thumping Michael Kayode header that was too hot for Portugal stopper Goncalo Ribeiro to handle.

Kayode’s first-half effort proved decisive after he powered home from Luis Hasa’s delicious cross into the penalty area.

And it could have been a more comfortable night at the office for the Azzurri if they took more of their chances in the opening period.

Hasa went close twice with cracking efforts on goal, while Inter Milan’s Pio Espsoito – teammate of former Shamrock Rovers man Kevin Zefi – also missed a big opportunity.

Portugal did at least show some life in the second half, and they ought to have levelled via Martim Fernandes – but his header was batted away by Italian keeper Davide Mastrantonio.

But Italy were able to hold firm in front of just over 5,000 spectators – sparking joyous scenes amongst the Italian support and players on the pitch.

It also brought an end to their wretched run of three successive final defeats – and it avenged their previous 5-1 loss against the Portuguese in the group stages. 

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