20 December 2023
Special match for the Under 19 on December 20th. The third matchday of the friendly tournament "Al Abtal Cup" featured a match against the Saudi Arabian team Future Falcons, and the location was special: the Allianz Stadium.
THE MATCH
A good test for Montero's boys, who in the first half play a sort of monologue: at the 6th minute they are immediately dangerous with Turco, stopped by Ridha. Great play from Scienza at the 19th minute, long-range shot, ball that grazes the crossbar. A minute later, the goal: scored by Grosso, who receives a verticalization from Scienza and places with a good shot.
Again Scienza just after the half-hour mark: free kick, great save from Alkhibari who saves with the help of the crossbar. On the following corner, the doubling, signed by Giorgi, able to anticipate everyone in the area and scores with a header.
The Saudi team tries to be dangerous, but Juve is solid: at the 38th minute Biggi tries the header, with the ball just above the crossbar.
The second half starts at a slightly slower pace, with Juve still controlling the match, even if at the fifth minute the danger comes from the visiting team, with Alkhorayed forcing Zelezny to a great save. At minute 15, on a corner from the left, Scarpetta is good at jumping higher than everyone else with excellent timing, but the ball is high over the crossbar.
Two more opportunities for the Bianconeri to note: at the 69th minute Grosso in front of the goalkeeper misses the chance for 3-0, at the 86th minute Pugno's great play deserves a better fate as he kicks high from afar.
In the end, glory also for the Future Falcons, who at the 92nd minute win a penalty, converted by Almousa.
Two to one at the end, good indications for our boys.
PAOLO MONTERO
"It was a good match, we played with good intensity and rhythm, we converted our chances and when that happens, it changes the game. The Future Falcons played well, in a quick and intense way, they are working well and this international tournament can be a good step in their growth, but also within our journey."
FILIPPO GROSSO
"We played well, I'm happy for the goal, our opponents were very good, especially in defense; this is a very beautiful tournament, we are pleased to be present."
