Italy beat US 1-0 in friendly

Matteo Politano scored in the 94th minute to give Italy a 1-0 victory against the US in a friendly that was the final match of 2018 for both teams.

The score understates the dominance of Italy here on Tuesday, who enjoyed 70 percent of possession and would have won in a rout if not for an outstanding performance by US goalkeeper Ethan Horvath, who made a half-dozen sparkling saves, reports Efe news.

US interim coach Dave Sarachan made 10 changes to the line-up that lost 0-3 to England last week, keeping only striker Christian Pulisic.

With nine of 11 starters under 23, it was the youngest US match roster in the modern era.

Most of the contest unfolded in the US end though Italy keeper Salvatore Sirigu had to be sharp to stop a header by Walker Zimmerman in the 64th minute.

The Italians continued to attack and Horvath remained a stone wall at the back until well into stoppage time when late sub Politano got the winner.

--IANS

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