Leonardo Bovio delivered the decisive moment for Italy’s Under-19s, scoring an 88th-minute winner against France after the Azzurrini had been reduced to ten men.
Italy had taken the lead through Simone Lontani, but the match changed when Christian Fogliaro was dismissed in the second half. France equalised from the penalty spot five minutes later, leaving Massimiliano Favo’s side facing a difficult finish against one of Europe’s strongest youth national teams.
Favo reorganised Italy into a 4-4-1 formation, and the adjustment helped his side regain a foothold in the match. With two minutes remaining, Bovio scored following a free kick to secure a 2–1 victory in Italy’s opening match of the international tournament in Croatia.
The performance marked another important moment in Bovio’s development. The young Inter defender is already gaining experience with the club’s Under-23 side in Serie C, taking his first steps into professional football while continuing his progression through Italy’s youth national teams.
His decisive contribution against France demonstrated the impact he can have beyond his defensive responsibilities and provided an encouraging start to Italy’s new Under-19 cycle.
For Bovio, it was an opportunity to make his mark on the international stage while continuing to establish himself in the professional game.
