Italy u20s came away with a victory over Japan u20s in their final game of the competition today, as the young Azzurri side reflect on a tournament that could have been so much more.
Despite an impressive victory over pool winners South Africa earlier in the tournament, it was a competition that will not be remembered fondly by the young Italian side.
Touted to have huge potential, this Italian side has not quite lived up to expectations with two losses that hurt them badly. Finishing bottom in their pool, they were set up to play Japan in the 11th-place playoff.
The match got underway in extreme fashion with a try in the first minute to the Italians, before a yellow card for the men in blue allowed Japan to hit back.
Now THIS is incredible 😮
Some serious individual brilliance from Gesi to get @Federugby over the line 🇮🇹#WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/BkI33kTRfO
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 14, 2023
The rest of the game saw Italy extending their lead, with Japan constantly chasing the game, resulting in a 45-15 scoreline at one stage.
He’s everywhere! ↯
A stunning hat trick for Dewi Passerella 💫#WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/LivyQ03PIv
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 14, 2023
Japan managed to save face toward the end of the match with some impressive tries, bring the result back to a respectable, 45-27.
“Beautiful rugby”
The Brave Blossoms refusing to get left behind 💪#WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/PNHj53ERt1
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) July 14, 2023
Italy captain David Odiase has been a major driving force behind this Italian side, and gave an honest reflection on his leadership.
— Jack Tunney (@JackTunneyRugby) July 14, 2023
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