Mediterranean Games: The Nerazzurri Trio’s Take

An experience certainly worth remembering, and one that Francesco Olivieri, Diego Perillo and Mattia Sonzogni will cherish for a long time. “But also a great opportunity to grow, mature and test ourselves against older players from different countries and footballing backgrounds,” agreed the three Nerazzurri, who were in action with Italy U18 at the 20th Mediterranean Games, held in Puglia from 22 to 30 August. Despite fielding a considerably younger squad than most of their opponents – the competition allowed players up to U21 level, namely those born in 2005 – the Azzurrini performed admirably, reaching the bronze-medal match. Although third place ultimately slipped away, the Games left nothing but fond memories for the three Nerazzurri.

“It was a great learning experience because facing older players in front of so many people really helps you grow,” said Mattia Sonzogni. “I’d never played in front of almost 20,000 people before, like in the game against Kosovo, our third match of the tournament, which also marked the reopening of the Iacovone stadium in Taranto. It was really special. In the end, experiences like these help you mature,” added the 2009-born goalkeeper, who featured in three of Italy’s five matches at the tournament.

The emotion also comes through in the words of Diego Perillo, whose goals against Kosovo in the group stage and Tunisia in the semi-final made an important contribution to Italy’s campaign. The first in particular, scored in the 96th minute against Kosovo, proved decisive in securing a place in the semi-finals. “It was a huge emotion and also one of the most important goals I’ve scored,” said the 2009-born forward, who featured in all five matches, starting three. “That goal also came thanks to the support the fans gave us from the very first minute as we pushed for qualification. The support we received is definitely one of the best memories I’ll always carry with me, together with the wonderful experience I shared with the whole Italy squad.”

“It was an extraordinary experience both on and off the pitch,” echoed Francesco Olivieri. “We stayed on a cruise ship together with all the other teams, which gave us the chance to meet and make new friends with athletes from other countries.” The Nerazzurri midfielder, who made four appearances – three as a starter – and missed the semi-final through suspension, was among the youngest players not only in the Italy squad but also in the entire tournament, having been born in 2010. “Testing yourself against older players really helps you grow. So does playing in a packed stadium. I don’t think any of us had ever played in front of so many people before. After all, that’s the kind of support we dreamed of as kids.”