On March 25, 2025, all eyes will be on Catanzaro as the Italy Under 19 national team prepares to face France in a decisive match for qualification to the European Championship. Set to kick off at 15:00 CET at the 'Ceravolo' stadium, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, not just for the players, but also for the passionate fans anticipating a dazzling performance.
With a strong showing needed to secure their advancement to the finals, Italy goes into the match with high stakes. They must clinch all three points against France and rely on Spain to best Latvia in another group match happening simultaneously. This scenario adds an extra layer of excitement to what is already an important game for both teams.
Among the players looking to make an impact is Seydou Fini, who recently debuted for the Under 21 national team in France at the prestigious tournament in Toulon less than a year ago. Reflecting on the opportunity to represent Italy, Fini stated, "When you play for Italy, you always have the duty to give everything." His words encapsulate the fervor and pride associated with wearing the national jersey.
The match draws not only talent but also considerable support, with at least 3,000 fans expected to fill the stands. Of the 2,800 tickets that have already been issued, many are free, allowing families and young supporters to partake in this pivotal encounter without financial barriers. Francesco Camarda, a standout player who was sidelined due to suspension for the Italy-Spain match, returns to the lineup, further bolstering Italy's chances.
Camarda’s absence was felt during the previous games, and his return could prove crucial as Italy aims to exploit their home advantage. Fini, for his part, plays with immense pride, having made significant strides in his young career. Born in Bondoukou, Costa d'Ivoire, and moving to Italy at the tender age of six, Fini has embraced various football cultures. Now playing for Excelsior Rotterdam in the Eerste Divisie, he describes the differences in play style to that of Italy. "For my characteristics, an experience there is ideal. I like to dribble, take on opponents, and have space to express my qualities," he added.
This match is crucial for the Under 19 team, not only for qualification but also to close out the Elite Round without regrets after having drawn against Latvia and Spain in their earlier encounters. Coach Alberto Bollini has faith that the team can show their true colors, despite what he calls "deceiving results." The team conceded late goals that prevented them from achieving victories, but they remain optimistic.
For Fini, the connection to his roots remains strong. Though he now lives in Italy, his heart is tethered to his homeland. He regularly returns to Costa d'Ivoire to visit family, where he finds enthusiastic fans eager to witness his journey as a budding football star. The excitement was palpable when Fini’s father spotted a local child wearing a Genoa jersey bearing Fini's surname. "My father, the last time he went to Costa d'Ivoire, saw a kid with ‘Fini’ on the back, and he hadn’t even given it to him. That was a beautiful feeling," he reflected.
As Fini prepares for the match, he emphasizes the importance of teamwork and commitment. The Under 19 squad is aware of the task ahead, grasping the significance of competing under the Italian banner. He expressed, "This Under 19 has proven to be a strong group, and the results have been a bit misleading; we’ve conceded two late goals that robbed us of two victories. However, we must keep pushing to finish the group stage without regrets."
With everyone supporting from various corners—some connected via Vivo Azzurro TV from Genova and others cheering from Bondoukou—anticipation builds. The stakes are clear. Victory is non-negotiable, not just as a path to the finals but as a matter of pride and honor.
In preparation, fans can secure their access to the 'Ceravolo' stadium by obtaining a free ticket via figc.vivaticket.it. The excitement isn’t limited to Italy alone; much of Africa will be watching, eager to see how their native son fares against one of Europe's top teams.
The road to potential glory continues, and when the whistle blows, every player will need to deliver the best of themselves for the supporters, for their teammates, and for the dream of participating in the final phase of the Under 19 European Championship.
