Ukraine U-19 shock Italy to top group and book semifinal berth at European Championship

Ukraine’s under-19 side pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over Italy in the final group-stage match of the 2026 European Under-19 Championship in Wales, securing top spot in the group. Head coach Mykhailenko fielded a rotated lineup after Ukraine’s previous win over Serbia (2-1) already guaranteed qualification. Despite heavy pressure from the Azzurrini, the young Ukrainians made the most of their only clear chance. In the 30th minute, Dynamo Kyiv midfielder Pavlo Lyusin — the tournament’s breakout star — split the Italian defense with a precise through ball. Bayern Munich winger Bohdan Olychenko collected it, cut inside, shrugged off a defender, and delicately lobbed the goalkeeper from inside the box. The second half belonged to Italy in terms of possession and attempts, but Karpaty Lviv goalkeeper Denys Marcenko produced a series of outstanding saves. His clean sheet was Ukraine’s first of the tournament and proved decisive. With the result, Ukraine finish top of the group and advance to the semifinals, where they will face Germany — runners-up in Group A.