The Under-15 academy squad from Melbourne City embarked on a remarkable journey across Europe, achieving a notable victory against Manchester City and securing a draw with Real Madrid. These young Australian talents showcased their skills against some of the best teams in the world.
During their two-week excursion in Europe, the Isuzu UTE A-League academy side participated in the esteemed Malmo Trophy in Sweden, finishing in sixth place.
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“While we may not have brought home the trophy, the boys delivered outstanding performances against some of the best youth teams globally,” stated Simon Zappia, City’s head of academy.
“They demonstrated the calibre of football they are capable of and elegantly embodied our City style of play.
“The talents within the squad clearly exhibited their abilities, proving they can compete with, and often surpass, many of Europe’s elite youth players. We are incredibly proud of their efforts.”
Prior to the international competition, City’s rising stars geared up for their European adventure with friendly matches against their sister club, Manchester City, and Bolton Wanderers in the United Kingdom.
They kicked off with a spectacular 7-1 victory over a Manchester City Select Squad, where teenage sensation Akeem Gerald, a standout for Alessandro Diamanti’s senior academy side in VPL1 this season, and Luka Demuth shone brightly.
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This was followed by an impressive 5-2 win against the Bolton Wanderers Academy, headlined by a remarkable four-goal display from Dhillan Calleja.
“It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved, providing valuable lessons for both players and staff throughout our time in Manchester and during the tournament in Malmo,” Zappia noted.
Subsequently, City flew to Sweden for the Malmo Trophy, where they faced the hosts, Malmo FF, suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat.
A stunning goal from Calleja allowed City to bounce back, defeating Greek giants Olympiacos 1-0.
In their next match against Switzerland’s Young Boys, Harley Truong netted a goal, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
In an intense final group-stage match, City held Real Madrid to a 1-1 draw, thanks to a late equaliser from Thomas Nasso that secured a point for the Australians.
SEASON REPORT CARDS
PART ONE: Your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season rated
PART TWO: Your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season rated
PART THREE: Your Isuzu UTE A-League side’s season rated
In the fifth-place play-off against France’s Toulouse, City narrowly lost 3-2 on penalties after a goalless draw, despite goalkeeper Jenson Gumbleton making two crucial saves.
“We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone at the City Football Group who supported us leading up to and during our time in Manchester. It was fantastic for the players to experience living and training like professionals at the City Football Academy,” Zappia expressed.
“These types of experiences are what we aim to provide for our players.
“In the years ahead, not only will they be integrated into youth national team programs, but we also hope they will have the opportunity to travel with our first team, not just domestically, but to tournaments such as the AFC Champions League, where they will need to prepare and perform under pressure.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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