Mattia Pica is starting to build a reputation with Italy’s U16s.
The 15-year-old Roma midfielder came off the bench against Spain at Coverciano on Tuesday and scored from the penalty spot in the 90th minute to secure a 1–1 draw for the Azzurrini.
It was not the first time he had arrived late.
Against England in August, Pica scored in the 90th minute of a 3–2 win. Against Spain, with Italy trailing and time almost gone, he did it again.
Pica entered after 57 minutes as Italy pushed for an equaliser. Spain had taken the lead early in the second half, while the Azzurrini struck the woodwork three times before finally finding a way through.
At 15, there is still far more development ahead than evidence behind him. He remains a Roma academy player, and youth international moments should be kept in perspective.
But patterns are worth noticing.
Two matches against England and Spain. Two goals in the 90th minute. For a player this young, that is already enough to make the name worth remembering.
