Fiorentina's Flying Eagles-eligible fullback scores match-winner as Italy lift U19 Euro trophy 

Italy were crowned as champions of the 2023 European U19 Championship after a 1-0 win over Portugal in a cagey contest at the National Stadium-Ta' Qali on Sunday, with Flying Eagles-eligible fullback Michael Kayode netting the winning goal for the Azzurrini.

Nineteen minutes into the contest, the Fiorentina starlet rose highest at the back post to plant a powerful header past Portugal goalkeeper Gonçalo Ribeiro after a cross was swung in from the left by Luis Hasa.

Predominantly a right-back. the versatile Kayode was deployed as a winger in the showpiece at the National Stadium in Malta with Italy coach Alberto Bollini deciding to repeat the same formation that he used in the semifinal against Spain.

Kayode showcased his versatility during the European U19 Championship, playing in three different positions - left-back, right-back and right winger. 

Apart from his aerial ability, the Italian-Nigerian defender is also known for his long throw-in technique. 

In addition to his brilliant defensive performances, he has added goals to his game, scoring six goals in 38 appearances for Fiorentina Primavera's squad in 2022-2023.

Last season, Kayode received eleven call ups for Serie A matches without making his debut for Fiorentina, whom he joined in 2021 after spells with the youth teams of Juventus and Gozzano.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: figc.it

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