Hosts Slovakia Eliminate from U21 Euros as Italy Secures Hard-Fought Win

The UEFA European Under-21 Championship hosts Slovakia were eliminated from the tournament following a 1-0 loss to Italy, with Carmine Nunziata’s side securing their advancement to the knockout phase after clinching consecutive victories.

In a must-win situation, the Slovakians started with intent, creating the first chance when Adam Obert headed just wide from a free-kick delivered by Tomas Suslov.

However, their early excitement was soon dampened by Italy, who took the lead in the seventh minute. The Slovak defence seemed to hesitate when Wilfried Gnonto was brought down, allowing Cesare Casadei to seize the opportunity, finishing expertly into the far corner for 1-0.

Jaroslav Kentos’ squad responded well to the setback, yet Italian goalkeeper Sebastiano Desplanches remained untested heading into half-time.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Italy content to maintain their lead. Despite this, Slovakia nearly found an equaliser shortly before the hour mark, as Mario Sauer delivered a brilliant cross to his brother Leo Sauer.

It seemed to be a prime opportunity, but the NAC Breda midfielder was at full stretch and unable to steer the header on target.

Italy then squandered a fantastic opportunity to extend their advantage shortly after the hour mark when a corner found Lorenzo Pirola in the six-yard box, but he sent the ball sailing over the bar under pressure.

As they sought a goal to revive their tournament hopes, Slovakia found it challenging to gain momentum in the closing stages, as Italy demonstrated their game management skills.

In a nail-biting finish, Slovakia nearly equalised when an Italian defender inadvertently redirected a set piece towards his own goal, but Desplanches produced a stunning diving save to secure the victory for Italy.

The defeat leaves Slovakia out of contention with one game remaining, facing a dead rubber against fellow winless side Romania on the final matchday, where avoiding the bottom of the group will be their aim.

On the flip side, Italy still holds aspirations for the top spot as they prepare to face Spain, who are also boasting a perfect record thus far.