07 February 2017
The Primavera’s European adventure ends in Amsterdam tonight following a 2-0 reverse away to Ajax, but Fabio Grosso’s spirited side can feel proud of their performance against formidable opponents in a debut appearance in the UEFA Youth League knockout stages.
After weathering a full-blooded storm from their hosts in the first quarter of an hour, the Bianconeri showed plenty of courage as they started to create opportunities of their own, Luca Clemenza hitting the post with a low drive that had Ajax stopper Stan van Bladeren beaten all ends up.
Having held their own for almost the entirety of the first half however, Grosso’s charges were dealt a sucker punch when Carel Eiting sent an unstoppable effort past Emil Audero from the edge of the box.
And the visitors suffered another serious blow just three minutes after the interval, Kaj Sierhuis doubling the hosts’ lead with a left-footed shot and leaving the Bianconeri with an uphill battle to revive their hopes of qualifying for the last 16.
Despite enduring two setbacks in such quick succession, the visitors would ensure they did not exit the competition with a whimper. On the contrary, they managed to muster a few more noteworthy chances on goal, Moise Kean striking the upright in the 80th minute after a fine solo move.
In the end, it was not to be the Primavera’s night, but they can hold their heads high in defeat following a display that bodes very well for future Youth League campaigns and, of course, their current title charge in the domestic league.
