19 June 2019
The Italian journey continues at the FIFA Women's World Cup, along with the eight Juventus players in squad for the tournament in France. After having already mathematically reached the next round with victory over Jamaica on Matchday 2, the Italians have now confirmed their first place in the group.
Italy were beaten by a goal to nil, with a Marta penalty in the second half proving decisive. Nevertheless, it was another good performance by Italy, who were once again held together by the Juventus block. Barbara Bonansea went close to the goal in the first half on a couple of occasions, as did Cristiana Girelli, who was unlucky to see a great goal ruled out for offside. Laura Giuliani made a couple of good saves, despite ultimately being beaten, with solid performances also from Aurora Galli, Valentina Cernoia and Sara Gama who all played the full 90 minutes, with Lisa Boattin a second half substitute.
Italy will go on to face either China or Nigeria in the Last 16 in a week's time in Montpellier.
After the women's squad's win, Brazil's men's side were in action next in the Copa America. However, after their opening day win the Seleção were held on home turf by Venezuela in a 0-0 draw. Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho both had goals ruled out after consultation with VAR, with Alex Sandro remaining an unused substitute. The tournament's host nation will take on Peru next in Sao Paulo.
The Copa America action continues tonight with Juan Cuadrado's Colombia up against Qatar (23:30 CEST) and Paulo Dybala's Argentina taking on Paraguay (02:30 CEST). The European Under-21 Championship will see Moise Kean in action for host nation, Italy taking on Poland (21:00 CEST).
