Italy. Viareggio Cup U19. Women
The Viareggio Cup for women's U19 teams is a prestigious Italian youth tournament within the renowned Trofeo Luigi Berlusconi framework. It gathers top Italian women's U19 squads, occasionally featuring international guests, on Tuscany's scenic pitches, spotlighting emerging talents amid Italy's burgeoning women's football scene.
History and foundation
Born as a female extension of the iconic Viareggio Cup—launched in 1946 and a launchpad for stars like Platini, Maldini, and Buffon—the women's edition kicked off in the early 2010s amid Europe's women's game boom. Fiorentina claimed the inaugural 2012 title; Juventus stunned Milan 2-1 in the 2019 final. A quirky note: COVID axed the 2020 event, but 2021's revival saw 16 teams and a thriller semifinal (Roma 4-3 Inter).
Tournament format
It features a group stage with four quartets of four teams each, top two advancing to knockouts. Matches run 80 minutes (2x40) per U19 FIFA rules. The final graces Viareggio's stadium, drawing top scouts. Recent editions host 16-20 teams from Juventus, Milan, Roma reserves, and select foreigners.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 3.2, favoring skill and counters. Top scorers: Clara Mieli (Juventus, 7 goals in 2022), Arianna Caruso (Roma, 6 in 2023). Standouts include Sofia Martinelli, now at Juventus Serie A, and Elena Lind from Milan's alumni in Italy's national team. Known for dribbling wingers and tenacious midfielders.