The UEFA Euro U-21 match between France U21 and Italy U21 will take place at Cluj Arena on Friday at 12:15 am IST.
The highly-anticipated clash between France Under-21s and Italy Under-21s marks the beginning of their journey to secure the European Championship title. Both teams are eager to bounce back after unexpected quarter-final eliminations in the 2021 tournament and aim for a more successful campaign this year. The match will take place at the Cluj Arena on Thursday.
Despite consistently producing talented players, it’s surprising that France hasn’t won the Under-21 Euros since 1988 and failed to qualify for the tournament in six consecutive attempts. However, recent performances show improvement, with semi-final and quarter-final finishes in 2019 and 2021 respectively. France aims to continue this progress in the upcoming tournament in Romania and Georgia. Their qualifying campaign saw eight wins, two draws, and an impressive 31 goals scored with only five conceded. Although notable victories have been scarce, a goalless draw against Spain in March followed a 4-0 loss to England, indicating potential vulnerabilities within the team. Coach Sylvain Ripoll will seek to address these issues and lead France to a stronger campaign.
Italy, like France, hasn’t won the competition in recent years, with their last victory in 2004. They have consistently participated in the last five editions, including a runner-up finish in 2013. Paolo Nicolato aims to restore Italy’s former glories in the upcoming weeks. Italy’s solid qualifying campaign, with seven wins and three draws, makes them strong contenders for the title. Their recent achievement of reaching the Under-20 World Cup final adds to their confidence. Ending a three-match winless streak, Italy secured victories against Serbia and Ukraine in March’s friendly internationals, building positive momentum for the tournament.
France Under-21 probable starting lineup: Meslier, Kalulu, Lukeba, Bade, Larouci, Caqueret, Kone, Thuram, Cherki, Kalimuendo, Gouiri
Italy Under-21 probable starting lineup: Carnesecchi, Pirola, Lovato, Okoli, Bellanova, Bove, Tonali, Ricci, Udogie, Cancellieri, Colombo
France Under-21
| Opponents | Score |
| Mexico U21 | 1-0 (W) |
| Spain U21 | 0-0 (D) |
| England U21 | 0-4 (L) |
| Norway U21 | 1-1 (D) |
| Belgium U21 | 2-2 (D) |
Italy Under-21
| Opponents | Score |
| Ukraine U21 | 3-1 (W) |
| Serbia U21 | 2-0 (W) |
| Germany U21 | 2-4 (L) |
| Japan U21 | 1-1 (D) |
| England U21 | 0-2 (L) |
The UEFA Euro U-21 match between France U21 and Italy U21 will take place at Cluj Arena on Friday at 12:15 am IST.
| France U21 vs Italy U21 | Key Details |
| Date | June 22 (France) |
| Venue | Cluj Arena |
| Kickoff time in France | 9:15 pm (Thursday) |
| Kickoff time in Italy | 9:15 pm (Thursday) |
| Kickoff time in India | 12:15 am (Friday) |
Football fans in France can catch the live action via Molotov while those in Italy can watch the match via RaiPlay.
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