The U-20 Mexican National Team fell behind early to Italy and was unable to gather enough momentum to triumph over the European side as they lost 2-1 in their debut of the U-20 World Cup in Poland.

Falling behind took a toll

The Italians took an early lead in the third minute of the game when Davide Frattesi blasted a shot from outside the 18-yard box that beat Mexican goalkeeper Carlos Alberto Higuera. The goal must have felt like a bucket of cold water for the Mexican side, which allowed the Europeans to take control of the game and possession of the ball. Mexico took several minutes to gather themselves, but the Italians continued to press and kept the ball away from El Tri. Finally, towards the middle of the half, Club Leon playmaker, Juan Jose Macias was able to get a shot on target that led to a boost of confidence for the Mexican squad. Just a minute following Macias’ shot on goal, Mexico would get on the board as Roberto de la Rosa scored on a header after finding himself wide open on a corner kick that an Italian player headed the ball in attempt to clear it, but instead found de la Rosa who tapped it in with his head to make it 1-1. 

Mexico came out a little more aggressive to start the second half, but the Italians would continue to battle in the midfield and continued to shut down the Mexican offense. Italy’s offense became more aggressive as well, and finally, in the 67th minute, Luca Ranieri would score for the Italians to make to 2-1 which would ultimately be enough for the European side to claim the victory. 

Despite having one of the top prospects in the entire tournament in Diego Lainez, the Real Betis forward was unable to contribute enough for Mexico and at times looked a little out place. It will be interesting to see how El Tri comes out on Sunday versus Japan, who tied in their opening game versus Ecuador, as Mexico now needs to win their last two games to remain in the tournament.