Italy’s U21 national team secured a dominant 4-0 victory over North Macedonia in a European Championship qualifier, with goals from Cher Ndour, Luca Lipani, and Jeff Ekhator. A late penalty from Seydou Fini further cemented the comprehensive win.
This win further solidified the Azzurrini’s strong campaign, marking their sixth victory in seven group matches, with their sole defeat coming against Poland. Despite missing key players Marco Palestra and Niccolò Pisilli, who were called up to the senior team, and Francesco Camarda due to injury, the squad saw the debut call-up of Honest Ahanor, just days after his 18th birthday made him eligible.
The Nazionale wasted no time in opening the scoring. Just minutes into the game, Davide Bartesaghi delivered a precise cross from the flank, which Fiorentina midfielder Cher Ndour met with a powerful header, finding the back of the net.
Luca Lipani came close to doubling Italy’s lead in the 13th minute. Following an assist from Luigi Cherubini, Lipani’s angled shot unfortunately struck the inside of the far post, denying him an early goal.
Jeff Ekhator’s clever back-heel flick from close range was blocked by a crucial deflection. Shortly after, Lipani’s header rattled the crossbar, marking his second encounter with the woodwork in the match.
Italy finally doubled their lead immediately after halftime. Luca Lipani, determined after his earlier misses, found success with a well-placed shot from outside the box that curled into the far bottom corner of the net, marking his long-awaited goal.
The Azzurrini extended their lead even further just moments later. Jeff Ekhator capitalized on an assist from Dagasso down the right flank, expertly turning the ball in at the near post for Italy’s third goal. Despite potential offside claims, the goal stood as VAR was not in use at this stage of the competition.
Luca Koleosho showcased individual brilliance with a winding run, though his subsequent shot was blocked. Cher Ndour also had an attempt on goal, but the goalkeeper managed to palm his effort away on the line.
Seydou Fini appeared to be fouled inside the penalty box, but without VAR available, the referee allowed play to continue.
Later in the game, another foul on Fini, this time by Hamza, was identified by the officials, resulting in a penalty. Fini confidently stepped up and converted the spot-kick in the 86th minute, sealing Italy’s comprehensive 4-0 victory.
