By Alan Duffy
Portugal’s highly-rated youngsters fell at the final hurdle in Prague on Tuesday night as outsiders Sweden won the EURO 21 final on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
The much-coveted William Carvalho, who was a star of the tournament, saw his spot-kick saved by Patrik Carlgren to give the hard-working Sweden a 4-3 shoot-out victory and seal the Scandinavians’ first-ever success in junior football.
Interestingly, nine other than England were the only team to beat the Swedes in the competition, winning 1-0 in the Group Stages. So that makes the Young Lions champions, right? At least Sweden’s win, with hardly the most talented squad at the finals, does show what can be done with the right attitude and the right organisation. Take note Gareth Southgate and the FA!
As for Portugal, despite the defeat they look to have the makings of a fine senior side in the years to come.
Highlights…
Photos: Getty Images
Highlights: Zidanekrisz