MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Francesco Camarda of US Lecce reacts during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Francesco Camarda celebrated his first goal for Italy U21 in the 4-0 win over Sweden, describing it as “a starting point” in his international career, while coach Silvio Baldini hailed the spirit and maturity of his young squad.
Camarda, who became Italy’s youngest-ever scorer at this level, converted a cheeky penalty in Cesena to cap another impressive team display.
Speaking to Rai Sport, with quotes via AlfredoPedulla.com, the Lecce forward, on loan from Milan, said he was delighted both for his goal and for the collective performance.
“I’m really happy, first for how we played as a team – we’re a great group and we showed it,” he said. “I didn’t know the coach wasn’t a fan of penalties like that, but it went well. You take risks, and I just act on instinct. I’m sorry if Ibrahimović won’t be pleased,” he added with a smile.
“This goal isn’t about me – it’s important for the team. It’s a starting point.”
Italy U21 coach Baldini hails spirit in win over Sweden
Baldini praised his players for their talent and cohesion but urged them to stay grounded. “These boys are good,” he said, via FirenzeViola.
“I’ve always said it’s a group full of talent, and tonight they showed it. But talent must be cultivated – with work and above all with the right mentality.”
The coach highlighted the unity in his squad, even referencing Berti’s penalty in his home city of Cesena. “That gesture gave me even more joy than the 4-0 win,” Baldini admitted.
He also underlined the freedom he grants his players: “I don’t put pressure on them or worry about the opponents. They’re talented and shouldn’t have any brakes. Even if I hate those kinds of penalties,” he joked, “if someone feels confident, they should take them.”
The win kept Italy top of their Euro 2027 qualifying group with a perfect record.
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