Caput Mundi: double win for the U18 National Team, second in their group

Two wins on the bounce to wrap up the group stage of the 18th Roma Caput Mundi international tournament for San Marino’s Under-18 National Team. The Biancazzurrini claimed a 3-2 victory last Tuesday over Rush Soccer, repeating the feat this afternoon against Juventus Academy Glen Shields (3-1). The match against Rush Soccer, the first US side ever to take part in the Roman tournament, was a real rollercoaster of emotions. San Marino struck immediately, going ahead after just four minutes thanks to a finish from Tamagnini. Shortly before the half-hour mark it was Mularoni – from the penalty spot – who doubled the lead. The game was far from over, though, as Rush Soccer pulled one back on 36 minutes through Ramos, then drew level just after the hour thanks to Barbara. It was Luca Pennacchini who tipped the balance San Marino’s way, proving the match-winner on 88 minutes with the strike that sealed the 3-2 result. At the same time, English Colleges FA’s 6-3 win over Juventus Academy Glen Shields propelled the British side to qualification reserved only for the group winners. To threaten their top spot, the Biancazzurrini needed a big win in the final game and to cheer on Rush Soccer, hoping for a three-way tie at the summit and a place in the next round via the head-to-head standings. Those conditions were only partially met because, while English Colleges FA got the better of their transatlantic cousins (3-2) to finish Group A with a 100% record, it is also true that San Marino secured their second consecutive victory this afternoon. At the "Angelo Collacchi" Stadium in Segni, Cancelli’s team took the lead on 10 minutes through Montali, only to concede an equaliser midway through the half following a piece of play from Mele. After the break San Marino shifted up a gear, finding a new and ultimately decisive lead on the hour mark through Grandoni. It was then Protti – on target ten minutes from time – who made the result safe, as well as second place in the group.

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