Baldanzi Scores Decisive Goal as Italy Opens U21 Euro Campaign with Victory Over Romania

Italy kicked off their U21 European Championships campaign with a solid three-point victory against Romania, thanks to Tommaso Baldanzi’s first-half strike that secured a 1-0 win in Trnava, ending the Azzurri’s five-match winless streak.

Facing a determined Romanian team that had recently claimed a 1-0 triumph over Georgia, Luca Koleosho aimed to break the deadlock early, attempting to cut in shortly after 11 minutes, but his effort was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Razvan Sava.

Punctual scoring has been a regular feature in Italy’s recent encounters, and Baldanzi pierced through Romania’s defence just before the half-hour mark, benefiting from a precise cutback by Matteo Ruggeri.

Carmine Nunziata’s squad nearly doubled their advantage just before the interval when Koleosho found space on the left wing; however, the Burnley forward’s shot cannoned off the crossbar.

This missed opportunity nearly came back to haunt the Azzurri when the Romanians were awarded a controversial penalty during first-half stoppage time, following a foul by Cher Ndour on Cristian Ignat. Fortunately for Italy, Sebastiano Desplanches was able to deny Louis Munteanu’s penalty attempt.

After the break, Romania’s Tricolorii remained undeterred, and they nearly equalised around the hour mark. Constantin Grameni directed a cross towards Ianis Stoica, whose celebrations were cut short by an offside call from the linesman.

With the Romanians posing a threat, Italy raised their intensity. A stunning save from Sava thwarted another attempt from Baldanzi, keeping Romania’s hopes alive.

This opening fixture loss presents Romania with a daunting challenge, as they must secure points against Spain on Saturday to avoid a third consecutive exit in the Group Stage. Meanwhile, Italy, having weathered a scare, will aim to extend their lead at the top of Group A in their upcoming match against the hosts, Slovakia.