16.3.24

Ambrit - Chateaubriand 3-0

 In una bella mattinata di sole le ragazze Ambrit, guidate dal coach Mr. Antonio, hanno affrontato in amichevole le pari età della scuola francese di Roma Chateaubriand. 

L'Ambrit ha dominato la partita in lungo e in largo, nel primo tempo con la "formazione tipo", nel secondo tempo con le giovani leve della prima media: in entrambi i casi le giocatrici di casa hanno concesso pochissimo alle avversarie (ottime le prove difensive di Costanza, Gracie e Caterina), mentre in centrocampo e in attacco hanno creato moltissimo (ottimo lavoro di Lavinia, Erin ed Erica), raccogliendo addirittura troppo poco. 

Il primo tempo ha visto le reti di Erica, brava a tirare in porta durante una mischia e di Erin, lanciata in contropiede da Costanza. Molte altre occasioni sono state sventate dal bravo portiere avversario, mentre altre ghiotte occasioni non sono state sfruttate (del resto le ragazze stanno cercando l'intesa giusta). Si sono viste molte cose positive: l'ottimo pressing a centrocampo, la grande attenzione in difesa, la corsa e l'impegno. Qualcosa si può senz'altro migliorare: l'intesa dei passaggi, il gioco con palla a terra...

Nel secondo tempo le ragazze più giovani sono entrate in campo, con grande spirito di sacrificio, ma la situazione non è cambiata molto: Aurora, che già si era distinta nel primo tempo per intensità e tecnica, si è piazzata al centro della difesa senza dare scampo alle avversarie, mentre Megan ha siglato la terza rete con un sinistro secco da fuori area sul palo opposto. Nel finale di nuovo Megan ha colpito l'incrocio dei pali con un sinistro fantastico...

In conclusione vogliamo sottolineare la grande disponibilità di Sara che, assenti tutti i portieri titolari, si è prestata a stare in porta per gran parte del match, con ottima prontezza. 

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Aurora. Chiamata a fare gli straordinari, ha risposto presente con una prestazione a tutto campo, tra attacco, difesa e ripartenze. Un pochino sfortunata nelle conclusioni, ma fondamentale per l'equilibrio della squadra, il pressing, le punizioni e le conclusioni.

11.3.24

Austria 1-1 France

 Un match molto fisico, con un'evidente difficoltà di alcuni giocatori in campo a contenere le emozioni e l'impulsività, che finisce in pareggio, grazie alle reti di Vittorio, molto ispirato oggi nelle due fasi, e Adriano, abile a insaccare una corta respinta del portiere su tiro di Rocco.

Poco altro da aggiungere, se non che Vittorio era andato già vicino al gol con i suoi tiri dalla distanza.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Vittorio C 4, Rocco 3, Giovanni V 2, Adriano 2, Simon 1, Antonio Jr 1, Lorenzo I 1.

9.3.24

Friendly: Ambrit 4-3 St George's

 In the first 10 minutes Ambrit did not play well and the visitors scored the first goal. On a corner from Francesco, Giovanni Z scored an amazing goal to make the score 1-1 but, right at the end of the first half, St George's scored again to lead at half-time. 

At the beginning of the second half one of their defenders handled in the area and Antonio buried the penalty. Next, a long pass from Giovanni V turned into an assist for Antonio, who nutmegged first a defender and then the goalkeeper to score his second goal and Ambrit's third. The home side extended their lead when Nicholas passed to Giovanni V; his shot was blocked but Antonio passed it back to Giovanni V to dribble two defenders score. At the end of the match, St. George's got a free kick which they turned into a goal. 

7.3.24

Malta 1-1 Sweden

 Una bella sfida quella di oggi tra Svezia 🇸🇪  e Malta 🇲🇹 , finita in pareggio, secondo noi abbastanza giusto per ciò che si è visto in campo. 

Malta è passata in vantaggio con un gol dalla lunga distanza di Aurora, che ha trovato un tiro spiovente, che ha ingannato la brava Freydis e si è infilato sotto la traversa. Da quel momento le Svedesi si sono accese e hanno iniziato una dura battaglia, tra difesa e centrocampo, grazie alla fisicità di Naila, Livia e Costanza. Proprio quest'ultima, a metà del secondo tempo, ha trovato l'imbucata giusta su fallo laterale per servire Sara - a tu per tu con il portiere - che non ha sbagliato.

L'1-1 ha retto fino alla fine del match, anche grazie alla bella prestazione in difesa di Angela da una parte e di Zoe dall'altra. Buon lavoro di Carla e Chloe nel centro-attacco, lavoro a tutto campo di Aurora, ma poco altruismo nelle sue giocate.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Costanza 4, Livia 3, Angela 3, Zoe 2, Aurora 2, Naila 2, Carla 2, Chloe 2, Sara P 2, Freydis 1, Maeve 1.

6.3.24

Turkey 3-1 Italy

 These two sides were well matched and studied each other carefully for the first period, Christian saving from Aurora and Freydis saving from Jacopo. Christian saved another Aurora shot just after the break but then Claudio broke the deadlock, beating Freydis with the help of a deflection. Turkey doubled their lead when Matteo's strong shot was well-blocked by Freydis but the rebound fell to Steve. In the third period,  Aurora pulled one back with a penalty after Matteo handled in the area but Claudio restored the two goal margin with a well-placed shot.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Claudio 3, Livia 2, Aurora R 2, Freydis 2, Rex 2, Matteo 2, Costanza 1, Sara W 1, Erika 1, Steve 1, Giulio R 1, Jacopo 1, Christian 1, Steve 1

2.3.24

Ambrit 3-1 Nomen

 A key match today at Ambrit stadium: 2nd place Ambrit hosting league leaders Nomen... a real test for the Tajani boys and they came through with flying colours!
In the first 10’, the match was tense and Ambrit was struggling in defence, the other team’s n.10 winning lots of ball in midfield. But Gabriele kept them at bay with some outstanding saves and then Dylan managed to score from a loose ball. Dylan later switched positions to central midfield in order to man mark the dangerous n.10 and it worked: Ambrit found more space, more possession and played better football. In the second half, Daniele doubled the lead and then Antonio made it 3-0. In between, Ambrit kept control by fair means and foul, both Vittorio and Giovanni picking up yellow cards for tactical fouls on the n.10 who had broken free. On the first occasion the n.10 got booked for an exaggerated reaction. On the second occasion he attacked Giovanni, tried to headbutt him and got sent off. Nomen scored a late consolation goal to make it 3-1.

1.3.24

Germany 2-1 Turkey

 Turkey were missing some players today - including captain Matteo - and Germany took full advantage but they had to work hard for the three points. Christian was busy in goal all through the game and he made an early save from Kevin. Claudio was everywhere: in one action early on, he narrowly missed a shot and was back to clear a shot off his own goal line 30 seconds later. Steve and Claudio linked up well going forward and Turkey took the lead when Claudio, running to the left, spun to shoot back into the bottom right corner. But Nicholas equalised immediately, just before half time. In the second half, Steve came close to stealing the lead but then Maverick scored to put Germany ahead. Steve and Claudio continued to test Christian but the grade 7 ace made save after save.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Claudio 4, Kevin 3, Steve 3, Christian 2, Maverick 2, Martti 2, Nicholas 2, Federico 1, Josh 1, Erik 1.


29.2.24

Malta 1-1 Croatia

 With a lot of absences today, Malta generously allowed Croatia to borrow Freydis and Livia and the two guest players turned out to be crucial, helping in no small measure to deny Malta the three points (Livia & Freydis not eligible for 'Best Player' points). Both Aurora R and Angela tested Freydis in the first half, but the Ambrit No. 1 responded well. She was helpless though when Malta did score just before half time, Aurora's strong free-kick coming through a forest of legs in front of her. Croatia equalised in the second half: after her earlier shot was well saved by Aurora A, Livia didn't miss her second chance, driving the ball home from the right.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Aurora R 3, Chloe 3, Gracie 3, Megan 2, Lavinia 2, Emma 2, Carla 1, Aurora A 1, Una 1


28.2.24

Belgium 1-3 Austria

 A quiet opening period came to an abrupt awakening when Austria stitched together a neat first goal: Gabriele F won the ball and passed to Antonio C; Antonio played in Rocco and Rocco finished it off. In period 2, Adriano was close with a header and then a Lucas P corner found its way to the net via Rocco's head: 2-0. Both teams then wasted good free kicks, Antonio C kicking over for Austria, Antonio F replying in kind for Belgium. Austria went 3-0 up after 2' of period 3, José scoring an own-goal as he tried to clear his lines. Daniele brought his team back into the game with a well-taken goal, turning quickly on a ball to fire home from the left. But Austria parked the bus for the last few minutes and Belgium never came near.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Antonio C 7, Gabriele F 3, Rocco 3, Sam 2, Antonio F 1, Daniele 1, Adriano 1, Simone 1, Simon 1, Lucas P 1

18.2.24

ACLI League: Ambrit 1-1 Santa Maria Assunta FC

Before the match, a quick glance at the league table would have shown you that today's opponents - one of the older fuori classifica teams - was second in the table with 18 points out of a possible 21. And the Ambrit players suffered a heavy 9-1 defeat in their previous encounter!
But today, Ambrit started the match positively: well-organised and tactically aware, looking to avoid their biggest defender and swarming over their opponents as soon as they crossed teh half-way line. There were chances for each side but SMA’s big number 16 managed to score a header to give the visitors the lead. But Ambrit kept playing good football; Dylan was fouled repeatedly but his work in midfield opened up spaces in front and Daniele almost scored more than once, their keeper making great saves. At the end of the first half Gabriele made a spectacular save too, tipping the ball over the crossbar from a free kick.
In the second half, Ambrit upped their game even more and dominated possession. Dylan made good runs off the ball, drawing defenders to the side to make space for Kevin and Daniele and luring their big captain out of the way. Dylan scored with 10 minutes remaining and Ambrit stayed solid at the back to earn a very tough point. Great defending from Giovanni, Vittorio, Martino and Adriano.

16.2.24

France 0-1 Germany

 Not a top quality game today but we did get some excitement towards the end. In the first half, there was no real action, no real chances; one half-decent shot from Diego A which was ably dealt with by Martti. In the second half, things did liven up. Maverick tested Mostafa in goal; Mostafa saved well. Kevin tested Mostafa in goal; Mostafa saved well. Ashton had a great chance but shot high but then Maverick made all the pressure finally tell; his first shot was well saved by Mostafa but he followed up to score. Maverick almost scored a second but shot wide and then he thought ha had scored a second with a great header from a corner, but VAR ruled out the goal because the corner was kicked from an illegal position! Germany continued to press - Lorenzo L was next to have a shot saved by Mostafa and France found it difficult to get forward. When they did, Diego A did a great job of winning possession, holding possession and bringing team mates into the game. Giovanni V managed to get a shot in but, again, Martti was comfortable.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Maverick 4, Diego A 3, Ashton 3, Erik 3, Martti 2, Mostafa 2, Francesco 1, Kevin 1, Vittorio 1, Lorenzo L 1

15.2.24

Switzerland 1-0 Sweden

 La Svizzera 🇨🇭 continua il suo percorso netto, con 3 vittorie su tre, battendo una buona Svezia 🇸🇪 .

Ancora una prestazione solida di Erin, autrice della rete-vittoria, ma stavolta la vera giocatrice da fermare è stata Erica, davvero imprendibile a tratti. Sul versante opposto ottima partita di Livia, presente e combattente in ogni angolo del campo, qualche sprazzo di classe da parte di Sara P, vicina al gol con uno slalom dei suoi. Sempre molto solide e affidabili Sara W, Alessandra e Sophie. Da segnalare la buona prestazione di Zoe, più volte pericolosa dalle parti di Maria.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Erica 4, Erin 3, Livia 3, Zoe 2, Maria 2, Freydis 2, Sara P 1, Sara W 1, Alessandra 1, Sophie 1, Caterina 1.

14.2.24

Belgium 2-2 Denmark

 The opening goal was a low and fiercely-struck shot from Giovanni Z but, following the Denmark player's red card, Antonio equalised from a free kick and then put Belgium ahead with a good finish under pressure. Five goals in five days for Antonio. Belgium almost had the three points in the bag but then, when Antoine tried to collect a high ball in the box, he was fouled by Luca Tommaso and Lorenzo converted the penalty.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Antonio F 4, Lorenzo G 3, Luca T 3, Daniele 2, Sam 2, Giovanni Z, Adrian 1, Ryan 1, Martino 1, Max 1, Antoine 1, Edoardo 1


10.2.24

RISA friendly: Ambrit 4-1 Lycee Chateaubriand

 After conceding an early goal, Ambrit took control of the match. An in-form Antonio F - looking to nail down a starting place for MedCup - slotted home a har-trick and ACLI captain Francesco added another.

TEAM: Gabriele, Francesco, Antonio F, Kevin, Adriano, Dmitrii, Nicolas, Aurora

9.2.24

Italy 0-2 Austria

 A well-judged lob from James in period 1 and an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner from Gabriele in period 2: two goals that were enough to take the three points to Vienna. But Italy, again, played well and deserved to get something out of the match. Aurora won countless tackles in midfield, Erin made countless runs from box to box, Naila stopped attack after attack.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Aurora R 3, Erin 3, Naila 2, Livia 2, James 2, Gabriele F 2, Simon 2, Antonio C 1, Alvaro 1, Maeve 1, Rocco 1, Adriano 1,   

8.2.24

Malta 1-0 Sweden

 La vittoria di misura di oggi permette a Malta 🇲🇹  di portarsi a pari punti con la Svezia 🇸🇪  e di rimettere equilibrio nel campionato: le formazioni di oggi, infatti, sono appaiate a 3 punti alle spalle della corazzata elvetica.

Le formazioni si sono presentate in campo con due assenze pesanti: da un lato la capitana svedese, Sara e dall'altro il portiere maltese Aurora. Lo spettacolo è stato godibile ed equilibrato, fino al gol di Aurora, un diagonale dalla lunga distanza, che è sfilato tra tante gambe e ha sorpreso la brava Freydis.

La Svezia, senza Sara, aveva un po' di difficoltà nel creare occasioni pericolose e Malta ha suggellato la vittoria con un paio di belle occasioni, di Angela e della stessa Aurora, neutralizzate bene da Freydis.

Bene la difesa maltese, con una prestazione convincente di Carla e Gracie, buono anche l'apporto di Chloe, coraggiosissima a rientrare in campo, dopo un terribile fallo subito.

Dal lato svedese, ottimo come al solito il contributo di Livia, ben supportata da Jiayi e Zoe a centrocampo, bene la difesa con Naila, Caterina e Sofia.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Aurora R 4, Livia 3, Freydis 2, Carla 2, Naila 2, Angela 1, Zoe 1, Jiayi 1, Gracie 1, Chloe 1, Caterina 1, Sofia 1.

7.2.24

France 2-2 Denmark

For Denmark, Max started strongly today and was unlucky to see two shots from close in going just wide. For France, it was Giovanni V who had the first chance after receiving a pass from Lorenzo I. Diego A almost opened the scoring but Giovanni Z got back to clear the ball off the line. Denmark then went ahead, Max's hard work paying off as he scrambled the ball over the line for a messy goal. With France still reeling, Lorenzo G took advantage with a shot from the left that was cleverly left by Max to creep into the corner for 2-0. Vittorio C had two chances to narrow the score before the break but one was saved, one went wide. France sorted out their problems at the break though and Lorenzo I scored a lovely individual goal to make it 2-1 and he then followed up to bury Diego A's assist for 2-2. Both teams wanted all three points, but it was Denmark who had the best chances towards the end. Diego I hit the post and Lorenzo G had a good shot saved by Freydis.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Lorenzo I 6, Diego A 4, Giovanni Z 3, Max 2, Lorenzo G 1, Vittorio 1, Diego I 1, Antoine 1, Francesco 1, Adrian 1

4.2.24

ACLI league: Ambrit 3-1 OMC

Today's match started with Ambrit continuously attacking and creating several opportunities, even hitting the crossbar. Finally, two minutes before the end of the first half, relentless pressure culminated with Adriano chesting down the ball down and shooting past the defender, only to see another opponent clear it off the line! Bit never fear, Dylan followed up and tucked home the rebound. 
The second half began with OMC trying to pull back into the game and they managed to get more possession and stay on the offensive, but Gabriele in goal was secure and determined and saved Ambrit's lead several times. However, after many shots, the ball did go in off the crossbar to level the score and set up another nail-biting finish! Ambrit reacted quickly though, bouncing back into attack and a one-two between Dylan and Adriano saw Adriano's finish put Ambrit back into the lead. After a few more shots from each side, Francesco broke free and played a lovely pass to Adriano who, in form today, controlled it, set up the shot and placed it into the opposite corner of the goalkeeper to seal today's victory.

2.2.24

Germany 0-2 Belgium

 Germany started stronger today but their effort petered out later on, with Belgium striking twice to take home the three points. Federico played Maverick in for an early chance but Zain made an excellent save. The crowd was still gasping when Zain pulled off another stop, this time blocking Kevin's shot. Germany followed up with another chance but, this time, Maverick's header came back off the crossbar. Maverick had another headed chance in the second period but this one went just wide. After all that, it was Belgium who took the lead. Captain Martino passed to Sam and Sam took off on a run that took him diagonally past three opponents before his well-placed reverse shot beat the goalkeeper at the far post. This was the crown on an amazing performance by Sam today. He was everywhere - tackling strongly, passing accurately, shooting on target. Antonio was also having an excellent game for Belgium in midfield, providing the energy to stop the German advances and turn them into threatening Belgian attacks. And, when Nicholas was yellow-carded for a foul on Sam, it was Antonio who fired the resulting free-kick into the back of the net.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Sam 8, Antonio 4, Maverick 3, Zain, 2, Erik 1, Federico 1, Leopoldo 1, Martino 1

1.2.24

Switzerland 2-1 Croatia

 Una partita combattuta e bellissima, vinta meritatamente da una Svizzera 🇨🇭  a punteggio pieno, contro una buona Croazia 🇭🇷 ancora a zero nel punteggio ma con la consapevolezza di potersi rialzare.

La fisicità di Erin, con la tecnica di Erica e Alessandra a centrocampo, l'intensità di Sophie e l'ottima difesa di Sara W: questi gli ingredienti che hanno permesso alla Svizzera di vincere il match. Dal lato croato non sono bastate le folate offensive di Margherita e Lavinia, né l'aggressività di Clotilde, ottima anche nel ruolo di portiere, né le buone prestazioni difensive di Una e Anna.

Tutto è accaduto nel secondo tempo: una punizione-bolide di Erin, pronta a insaccarsi in rete, viene fermata da Margherita con le mani. Inevitabile giallo e rigore, trasformato dalla stessa Erin con freddezza. Passa un minuto ed Erica, su azione personale, fa 2-0. Sarebbero addirittura tre se il tiro di Erin, direttamente da calcio d'angolo, non centrasse il palo... La reazione della Croazia non si fa attendere e Margherita accorcia le distanze con uno scatto che brucia tutti e inganna il portiere. Il tempo però è agli sgoccioli e la Svizzera controlla il finale senza grandi preoccupazioni.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Erin 4, Alessandra 4, Erica 3, Sophie 3, Margherita 2, Una 2, Lavinia 2, Clotilde 2, Sara W 2, Anna 1, Megan 1, Suleyma 1, Greta 1.

31.1.24

Denmark 3-0 Italy

 A goal-less first period in which the highlight was Erica's shot that was well-saved by Adrian led to a second period dominated by Denmark. Diego first struck the bar with a savage shot and then scored with a powerful strike that got past an excellent Freydis. In fact, the girls'm goalkeeper made two great saves from Lorenzo and Diego before the second period ended. Diego added two more goals in period 3: one a header and one a right-foot shot.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Freydis 5, Erica 3, Diego 3, Giovanni Z 3, Naila 2, Aurora R 1, Margherita 1, Erin 1, Adrian 1, Livia 1

29.1.24

ACLI League: VIS Velletri 1-13 Ambrit

 Ambrit started well with an early goal from Dylan. Then, from a set piece situation, Dylan scored again and Kevin added another after lonking up with Dylan and Antonio. Kevin scored again to leave the home side reeling, but they did manage a goal to make it 4-1 before cancelling that with an own goal to make it 5-1. Antonio was next to get in on the scoring act, nabbing two to make it 7-1. No mercy from the visitors, with Dylan and and Giovanni swapping passes to send Giovanni in for a goal and Dylan scored again too just before half time. In the second half Ambrit banged in five more (two Martino, one Antonio, one Dylan, one Kevin). Gabriele made some very good saves.

26.1.24

Turkey 2-1 Austria

 Ancora una vittoria per la Turchia 🇹🇷 , capace di impressionare di fronte alla corazzata austriaca, con un Claudio indomabile, che quando ingrana la marcia diventa un bel problema per ogni difesa. Sono bastati, infatti, un paio di guizzi del campioncino da 56 milioni per sistemare un avversario temibile e ben organizzato come il team guidato da Aron.

Veniamo alla cronaca: i Turchi partono forte, con Claudio e Jacopo molto risoluti, ma anche molto individualisti (non si registrano passaggi tra loro). Proprio da una di quest azioni individuali nasce il vantaggio dei rossi: Claudio si libera di tre avversari e lascia partire un diagonale stretto all'angolino, su cui Aron non può fare nulla. La partita si accende e l'Austria prova più volte a lanciare Rocco, che con le buone o con le cattive viene arginato dalle buone prestazioni di Matteo e Dmitri. Sul fronte opposto non c'è grande movimento di palla, con Jacopo che prova a fare tutto da solo, idem Claudio e il povero Steve che cerca di fare da tramite tra centrocampo e attacco. 

A cinque minuti dal termine la svolta: Rocco protegge palla in area e viene messo giù da Matteo. Per l'arbitro è rigore, che lo stesso Rocco si incarica di trasformare: 1-1. La Turchia riparte a testa bassa e, di nuovo, trova il vantaggio con un'altra prodezza di Claudio, che stavolta si coordina bene su una palla vagante e la spedisce su palo opposto. L'Austria 🇦🇹 non ha più benzina, né convinzioni, nonostante qualche tentativo di Gabriele da lontano che non trova la porta.

Chi riuscirà a fermare la nazionale di Montella?

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Claudio 6, Aron 4, Matteo T 3, Jacopo 3, Gabriele 2, Rocco 2, Dmitri 1, Steve 1, Lucas P 1.

Switzerland 2-0 Malta

 Una partita combattuta ed entusiasmante, in bilico fino alla fine, nonostante il punteggio sembri piuttosto punitivo per Malta.

La Svizzera 🇨🇭 inizia la partita con grande veemenza, conquistando subito il vantaggio grazie allo sfortunato autogol delle Maltesi, ma in fondo meritando per la grande pressione esercitata. Da quel momento inizia una grande sfida, fisica e tecnica, tra Erin - protagonista assoluta ma un poco solitaria - e Aurora - anche lei poco abituata a passare il pallone. Le occasioni si susseguono, da una parte e dall'altra, con un'ottima difesa di Sara W, da una parte, e di Maeve dall'altra. Per ben due volte le Maltesi sfiornao il pareggio, prima con Aurora su una bella punizione che si stampa sulla traversa, poi con Angela, che su respinta corta del portiere colpisce il palo.

Quasi a tempo scaduto giunge il raddoppio di Erin, velocissima, a suggellare i tre punti della vittoria.

Da sottolineare diverse buone prestazioni, come quella di Valerie e Carla a centrocampo, Gracie e Maeve in difesa per Malta 🇲🇹 , oltre alla già citata Aurora R; Erin, Sara W, Alessandra, Sophie nella Svizzera. Meno brillante del solito il talento di Erica, poco servita dalle compagne.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Erin 6, Sara W 3, Valerie 3, Maeve 3, Aurora R 2, Carla 2, Gracie 1, Sophie 1, Alessandra 1.

24.1.24

Denmark 3-1 Germany

 This was one of the best games of the year. Denmark dominated the first period, with shots raining in from Lorenzo G (terrible moss early on!), Carlo (over), Diego (fantastic save from Martti) and Antoine (wide) but then, out of the blue, Germany took the lead. Kevin's pass found Maverick who was marked by Giovanni but Maverick scored with an unbelievably good turn and shot! The lead was short-lived though. Lorenzo G headed in an equaliser a minute later off a corner (and then picked up a yellow card for provocative celebrations!). Denmark hit the ground running again in period 2, Diego shooting over. Next, Giovanni tested Martti but the g6 'keeper made another fine save. Next, Giovanni passed to Antoine and Lorenzo G slid onto his assist for 2-1. Federico almost hit back early in period 3 but Adrian made a brilliant save. Denmark scored again though. Lorenzo G's assist; Diego's goal. Denmark continued to press right to the end: Giovanni shot over and Carlo pulled another good save from Martti.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Giovanni 4, Lorenzo G 3, Federico 2, Diego I 2, Adrian 2, Martti 2, Maverick 2, Antoine 2, Carlo 1, Kevin 1 


20.1.24

BOYS Friendly: St George's 4-4 Ambrit

 It might have been billed as a 'friendly' match but neither side lacked a competitive edge in this morning's encounter. Ambrit started well but, just like in last Sunday's ACLI match, a moment of distraction saw them concede an early goal. But the team settled down and then drew level, the goal coming from new signing Giovanni Z. In the second half, Ambrit conceded their customary early goal... and then another to find themselves 3-1 behind. But Ambrit were rescued from an unlikely source! Adriano used to be considered a defender but, employed this year by Mr Gabriele as an attacking wing-back or even as an out-and-out striker, he showed all his skills today to pop in a hat-trick to propel Ambrit into the lead. However, despite the solid pairing of Giovanni Z and Vittorio in defence, a lack of focus throughout the team allowed the hosts to equalise towards the end.

19.1.24

France 1-2 Turkey

 A match that was 0-0 after period 1 and still 0-0 after period 2 exploded into life for the last period of play. France looked livelier early on and Lorenzo I and Vittorio C both hit shots that might have troubled a less attentive 'keeper than Christian. Turkey came into the game more in period 2 and Jacopo sent a warning shot across the French bows, though Francesco hit back himself with a good attempt for France. Turkey almost went ahead when Jacopo latched onto a Rex shot but he headed just over the bar. He followed this up with a long range shot that also went over the bar... but Jacopo was just finding his range for later! 

It was France who took the lead. Giovanni V won the ball and played in Diego A; the 6th grader stroked it home calmly. But Turkey equalised almost immediately: Jacopo played in Steve, who was faster to the ball than Matteo and Steve slid it past him. The winning goal came soon after... and it was a beauty. Jacopo won the ball in midfield and decided he was going to score. He beat one man, looked up to check his position again; then he beat another man, looked up to check his position again; and then he hit a perfectly-calibrated shot high over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net!

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Giovanni V 6, Jacopo 6, Vittorio C 2, Lorenzo I 1,Diego A 1, Rex 1, Steve 1, Francesco 1, Dmitrii 1

Sweden 1-0 Croatia

 Una bella battaglia: così definirei la partita tra Svezia 🇸🇪 e Croazia 🇭🇷 di ieri. Molta fisicità da una parte e dall'altra, poche buone occasioni e due difese molto attente, almeno fino a 2 minuti dalla fine, quando una colossale distrazione del portiere croato ha permesso a Sara di accompagnare la palla in rete e regalare i primi tre punti del campionato alla sua squadra.

Bella la sfida tra Naila e Margherita, come quella tra Sara e Clotilde. Molto buone le prestazioni dell'esordiente Greta, di Anna, Emma e Caterina in difesa e - soprattutto - di Livia a centrocampo e...un po' ovunque.

Il campionato è ancora lunghissimo, infatti nel secondo intramural le squadre si incontreranno all'andata e al ritorno; quindi c'è modo, per ciascuna squadra, di riorganizzarsi, di aggiustare il tiro, di cambiare posizioni e di gestire le forze.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Livia 4, Naila 3, Margherita 3, Lavinia 2, Sara P 2, Caterina 2, Greta 2, Anna 2, Emma 2, Costanza 2, Clotilde 1, Freydis 1, Megan 1.

17.1.24

Belgium 3-0 Italy

 The first match of this new Intramural was a thriller. These two teams tore into each other from the very start and, despite the final scoreline, Italy played just as well as their victorious opponents. Daniele - Best Player in Autumn - had three good shots today but Freydis made three fantastic saves to keep him off the scoresheet. It was Captain Martino who finally broke the deadlock, following up in a goalmouth scramble to dribble past an unlucky Freydis. In the second period, Martino scored again, this time directly from a corner and, from another corner, he supplied the assist for Luca's expertly finished goal.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH: Freydis 4, Daniele 3, Luca 3, Naila 3, Martino 3, Lucas C 1, Erin 1, Sara P 1, Margherita 1, Ryan 1



15.1.24

Galatasaray/France 3-0 Teachers

 The teachers poor run of form continued today when they were totally outplayed in the first half by a rampant team of Intramural Champions. Worryingly (for the future of the teachers), the damage was done by two 6th graders; Lorenzo G fired home the first, Claudio numbers two and three - and all three goals were similar. All were well-struck shots from the left that flew low into the opposite corner of the goal.

ACLI league: Nomen FC 3-0 Ambrit

 Up against another one of the 'fuori classifica' teams in the group, Ambrit gave a good account of themselves today but they must learn to maintain their focus all the time to avoid those moments of distraction that inevitably lead to goals.

The home side scored really early in the first half but then Ambrit settled down and played well, quickly closing off the spaces between defence and midfield but offering little in the way of an attacking threat. Ambrit managed just one good shot, Dylan turning quickly on a neat assist from Kevin. Gabriele made a series of excellent one-on-one saves to keep the score to 0-1 at half time. 

The second half followed a similar patter, Ambrit tidy in defence but lacking conviction when attacking. A pity that so much good work was undone by two moments of distraction towards the end. Nomen went 2-0 up when a weak free kick sent the ball unchallenged through the Ambrit defence and into the corner of the net; and Nomen added a third when a high ball was allowed to bounce and get past an injured Gabriele.

12.1.24

TEACHERS 4-3 Grade 7

 A valiant but ultimately vain attempt by g7 to emulate yesterday's historic win was thwarted by a gritty comeback by th eteachers. After an opening period where Lorenzo and Jacopo tormented the Teachers' defence, the teachers turned the tables in the second half. The first goal of the game was scored by Lorenzo and he almost made it 2-0 but Mr H made a fantastic clearance off the line. Mr Martin then made a match-winning save, tipping a strong Jacopo shot onto the crossbar. Lorenzo did score again before half time though, combining well with Jacopo to score at the far post. 

Early in the second half, Christian made a miraculous save but, from the resulting throw-in, Mr Francesco bundled the ball over the line with some unidentifiable part of his body to make it 2-1. Now on a roll, the teachers continued to attack and, when the ball broke to Mr Chad, he used all of his considerable experience to find a route to goal: 2-2! 

Grade 7, stung by this equaliser, threw themselves into attack again. Max found Madison, Madison found Antoine, Antoine found the net: 3-2! But the teachers came right back at them and equalised again through Mr Basketball to set up a nailbiting finish! Soon after, each side could have scored to win: Carlo for g7 and Miss A for the teachers each spurned good chances and then Mr Basketball was tripped up on the edge of the area. Mr Francesco stepped up to take it. He studied the kick carefully, addressed the ball as if attempting to curl it into the opposite top corner and then slyly rolled it into the near post bottom-corner instead to capture a sweet victory for the teachers!

11.1.24

Grade 6 1-0 Teachers

 A historic win for Grade 6 today against a depleted teachers' team that was carried by a heroic Mr H in defence, a resourceful Miss Amendola in midfield and a group of g8 stand-ins that played well but not well enough to withstand a well-organised assault from the little g6 devils. Claudio and co. tormented the teachers in the first half; Antonio C and co. took over later. In both halves, the teachers were saved on numerous occasions by Giovanni Z in goal and were then saved by an attentive Mr Calento who spotted a handball to cut short Diego's premature celebrations. The teachers created little threat up front: an aging Mr Corcoran looked happy to stay on his feet but he never looked like scoring and, when Mr Gianluca joined him in the second half, the combined age of the teachers' forward line rose to 133. It was Lucas who finally put the teachers out of their misery, delivering the mortal blow five minutes from the end. Bravi i g6... domani tocca ai g7😱.

10.1.24

BOYS MARKET

 Cari amici di Ambrit Intramural,

Eccoci in diretta per il Calciomercato maschile, per vivere insieme le "bombe" di mercato...

L'inizio è incredibile: vengono estratti fior di giocatori (Lorenzo I, Lorenzo G., Christian, Steve...) e nessuno formula un'offerta...prima volta che accade una cosa del genere...

Il nome che stimola ora è Rocco, che va per 44 milioni all'Austria!

È il momento di Giovanni Z, che va alla Danimarca di Diego per ben 70 milioni!

Gabriele F, anche lui all'Austria, con un grande affare da 24 milioni! All'Austria anche Antonio C per 32 milioni: grande mercato di capitan Aron.

Josh si accaparra Kevin per il miglior affare della storia: solo 10 milioni! Assurdo...

Si lotta ora per il piccolo talento Claudio, che va alla Turchia per 56 milioni. Forse un record per un grade 6...

Martino prende Luca Tommaso per 6 milioni.

Si lotta per Federico, a 25 milioni viene preso dalla Germania: dopo Kevin un altro buon affare...

Daniele scatena l'asta più sanguinosa... 85 milioni per Daniele, che va al Belgio di Martino.

Diego pesca Lorenzo G per soli 5 milioni, davvero un ottimo affare.

Josh completa la squadra con Maverick, spendendo i 32 milioni rimanenti.

Francesco investe 45 milioni per Vittorio e 29 per Lorenzo I: un buon mercato... tutti e due alla Francia.

Matteo porta alla Turchia il talento di Steve per 30 milioni.

Gli ultimi giocatori estratti, vengono inseriti senza asta via via alle squadre che hanno più soldi nelle casse.

A domani per il Calciomercato femminile!



20.12.23

Galatasaray 0-0 Dortmund (4-2 after penalties)

A closely-fought final without too much goal action but with an exciting penalty shoot-out that saw the winning trophy go to Turkey. In period 2, Claudio made a great run down the left and almost scored but the goalkeeper managed to push the ball wide. In period 3, Federico tested Gabriele T with three good shots but Gabriele saved each time. The best chance of the game fell to Maverick; he could have challenged even closer for the Top Scorer trophy but he hooked the shot wide. 

And so to penalties: Hats off to the two goalkeepers - Adrian and Giovanni: both made good saves but Galatasaray's kickers held their nerve just slightly better.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Claudio 3, Antonio C 3, Giovanni V 2, Antonio F 2, Giovanni Z 2, Daniele 1, Adrian 2, Erik 1, Federico 1, Maverick 1, Carlo 1, Gabriele T 1, Ryan 1

Third Place final: PSV 2-2 Napoli (7-6 after penalties)

 A quick free-kick from Rocco put PSV ahead. Diego I responded immediately, driving an unstoppable shot just over the bar. Vittorio went one better shortly afterwards, his shot striking the underside of the bar and coming out - very unlucky. Napoli equalised before half time: Diego I passed to Leopoldo and he found a rampant Steve who blasted the ball home. Napoli should have gone ahead when Matteo played in a fantastic cross from teh left that was begging to be converted but Napoli did go ahead just before half time. Again it was Matteo with the assist, again it was a determined run and shot from Steve to score. The Italians almost hung on long enough in the second half, but Rocco played a lovely long pass to Lucas in the box; Lucas dodged around his man and shot home. PSV won the penalty shoot-out, thanks to a good save from Christian.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Christian 3, Diego I 3, Matteo N 3, Rocco 3, Steve 3, Vittorio 1, Aron 1, Luca 1, Leopoldo 1, Simon 1, Lucas 1

19.12.23

SF2: Dortmund 2-0 Napoli

 A strong start by the Germans today and they pressed Napoli back early on. The best chance of the first period fell to Antonio but he managed to shoot over the bar. Daniele managed one shot from the right but it was well wide of the opposite post. In the second period, Daniele again shot wide and Antonio again came close, his well-struck free kick coming back off the bar, then the post and out! Dortmund finally went ahead with the last kick of period 2, Maverick nipping in to take advantage of some hesitation in the Napoli defence. No change in period 3: Napoli huffed and they puffed but Federico blew their house down with a well-taken second goal.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Daniele 3, Diego A 2, Anto C 2, Carlo 2, Diego I 2, Maverick 2, Simon 1, Federico 1, Leopoldo 1, Luca 1, Aron 1, Weik 1, Matteo N 1, Martti 1


17.12.23

ACLI league: Ambrit 2-2 Santa Maria Assunta

 Football, as they say, is a funny old game. For the first 15', Ambrit dominated possession and territory, creating chance after chance and peppering the opposition goal with shots. Daniele crashed a left-foot shot off the bar and Adriano, following up, smashed an excellent shot low to the right but the keeper made a great save. Daniele popped up on the right wing next time and banged another shot off the bar and then, through again, he tried to chip the keeper but the keeper managed to get a hand on it - just enough to keep the ball out. Another flowing Ambrit move saw Kevin find Dani on the left wing; Dani squared it into Dylan on the edge of the area and Dylan guided the ball just wide when he really should have got it on target. And then, 'gol mangiato, gol subito' - it had to happen. The opposition's first attack saw the No. 11 line up a shot that would surely have been a goal, but Vittorio made a fantastic intervention to block the ball. But then, from the restart, as the ball was crossed harmlessly into the centre, a foot was stuck out and the ball somehow found its way past Gabriele. Adriano just had enough time to test the keeper again with another blistering shot before the teams went in for half-time.

Ambrit made less chances early in the second half but the re-intoduction of Kevin with 10' to go set the game alight. Kevin equalised with a cleanly-hit shot from 20m out and Ambrit threw themselves into attack again. Dylan had a decent shot saved and then Dani played a nice one-two with Dylan and smashed the ball into the top corner! 2-1... could Ambrit hang on? Sadly, no. A silly free kick was conceded on the left and, when the ball came in, the opposing player climbed higher than any of Ambrit's defenders to head home an equaliser.

It should have been three points to Ambrit today, but it wasn't. Why? Too many chances not taken, too many free-kicks totally wasted, too many fouls given away and - worst of all - too many balls bouncing in defence!

We did see some good performances though and three players stood out for this writer: Vittorio was solid in defence; Francesco did a great job in midfield - winning tackles, passing the ball simply and calmly; and Adriano played his position well, stretching the line, winning tackles, forcing the opposition back and getting shots on target.

15.12.23

SF1: Galatasaray 0-0 PSV Eindhoven

 After dominating the qualifying group, Galatasaray were favourites to brush aside 4th-place PSV but, at full strength today, the Dutch team held their own. In the end, it was an uneventful game with few real chances - typical semi-final fare. Claudio did almost score early on but Tancredi made an important clearance off the line. Lorenzo forced a good save from Christian shortly afterwards and then Lorenzo - again - shot wide. At the other end, Rocco lined up a couple of shots but didn't really trouble the goalkeeper. Penalties will decide the outcome on Monday morning, 11.20.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Vittorio 3, Lorenzo G 3, Rocco 2, Claudio 2, Giovanni Z 2, Gabriele T 2, Christian 2, Tancredi 2, Antonio F 1, Ashton 1, Giovanni V 1

13.12.23

SEMI-FINALS...

 Friday Dec 15, 11:20 - GALATASARAY versus PSV Eindhoven

Tuesday Dec 19, 13.30 - DORTMUND versus NAPOLI

Atletico 1-2 PSV

 With two of their most important payers sidelined today for disciplinary reasons, PSV were odds on to crash out of the tournament but the players who were available pulled together and gave a fantastic performance to earn a semi-final place! First half goals from Ashton and Giovanni, backed up by a resolute Josh in defence and an outstanding Christian in goal, were enough, despite a late Atletico resurgence that brought a goal from Lorenzo I and numerous chances.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Christian 5, Josh 4, Ashton 3, Lorenzo I 2, Giovanni M 2, Tancredi 1, Mostafa 1, Adriano 1, Kevin 1, Martino 1, Dmitri 1, 

12.12.23

GIRLS' FINAL: France 1-0 Albania

 La Francia conquista il primo Intramural femminile 23/24, con una vittoria di misura sull'Albania, conquistata grazie a una rete siglata da Angela a 5 minuti dalla fine.

La partita in realtà era iniziata con un'Albania molto arrembante e una Francia molto attenta in difesa, con Erin e Chloe "incatenate" ad Aurora per non consentirle di sprigionare la sua potenza. Con il passare del tempo, però, la Francia ha trovato coraggio, riuscendo a gestire meglio il pallone e trovando in Lavinia la giocatrice di maggiore intensità, mentre l'Albania ha pagato l'Aurora-dipendenza.

Le azioni d'attacco albanesi erano affidate a Zoe e Carla, mentre la difesa si è ben organizzata con Anna e Sara W, solide e combattive; centrocampo Suleyma ha giocato con intensità.

Sul fronte francese Valerie è stata di grande aiuto in difesa nella prima parte della gara e nel finale è stata sostituita egregiamente da Caterina, molto solida e concentrata. Tra i pali la capitana Freydis ha sventato un paio di buone occasioni capitate ad Aurora e si è confermata come il portiere titolare dell'Ambrit. A centrocampo, come dicevamo, Lavinia ha dato l'impressione di poter gestire la palla con lucidità, aiutata in attacco da Sara P e Angela. Proprio quest'ultima, in un'azione corale delle francesi, è riuscita a mettere la zampata finale su un pallone abilmente protetto da Erin.

A nostro avviso la Francia ha meritato il titolo, nonostante il generale equilibrio del torneo, avendo mostrato un convincente gioco di squadra e una migliore organizzazione.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Lavinia 4, Erin 4, Aurora R 3, Chloe 2, Anna L 2, Caterina 2, Freydis 2, Sara W 1, Zoe 1, Angela 1, Jiayi 1.

11.12.23

ACLI league: Ambrit 8-1 Santa Caterina

 After an early fright when the visitors scored to go 1-0 up, Ambrit recovered, equalised and never looked back. Daniele supplied the assist to Dylan for goal number 1. It was again Daniele who made a great run down the right wing before passing to Kevin and Kevin played Dylan in for number 2. Antonio set up Kevin for the next goal and Ambrit were comfortably ahead 3-1 at the break.

The home side began the second half strongly again and Dylan completed his hat-trick with a breakaway goal that left the visitors totally stranded. Francesco's expertly-struck corner was banged home by Nicolas and Antonio made it 6-1 with just 10' left. The visitors never gave up and did manage a couple of good shots but Gabriele was always in charge. Dylan scored two more late goals to finish with a personal tally of 5! 

7.12.23

Galatasaray 0-1 Napoli

 A big upset today at Ambrit Stadium, with Napoli pulling off a surprise win over an unbeaten Galatasaray and, in all probability, assuring themselves of an unexpected SF place. Leopoldo rescued his team early on with a breath-taking triple save and Galatasaray continued to apply the pressure. Early in the second ghalf, Lorenzo shot wide and then Claudio too. The goal came late on: Rex was too casual with a clearance and Steve took full advantage - racing through to score the winner!

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Simon 4, Giovanni Z 3, Claudio 3, Luca Tommaso 2, Nicolas 2, Steve 2, Gabriel T 1, Leopoldo 1, Diego A 1, Lorenzo G 1, Ryan 1

6.12.23

Man City 0-5 Dortmund 5

 Today's result was never in much doubt. Dortmund banged in 5 goals, one better then the next and two absolute jewels. Carlo made it 1-0 in the first period, sweeping a low shot past Martti in goal and Maverick scored a beautiful second in period 2, rising majestically to plant a perfect header into the back of the net. Federico should have made it 3-0 but he blasted over.

In period 3, Federico shot wide to the left but Daniele scored from way out on the touchline before Federico did finally get his name on the scoresheet. But Antonio kept the best goal of the game for us right until the end. From a cross on the right, he smashed an acrobatic scissors kick over his left shoulder and past a bewildered Gabriele. If you want to see exactly what it was like, here is a link!

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Daniele 5, Federico 4, Francesco 3, Antonio C 3, Maverick 2, Carlo 2, Jacopo 1, Adrian 1, Erik 1

3.12.23

ACLI league: US Nomen 4-4 Ambrit

 Ambrit began the game well, Dylan and Kevin linking up to set up an early goal for Dylan. Nomen were lucky to equalise soon after, Nicolas scoring an own-goal. In the second half, the hosts scored right away but Dylan got his team level again with a well-struck free-kick. The visitors then got their noses in front, Daniele finishing off a good move with a goal for 3-2. In a ding-dong battle, Nomen equalised again but Kevin made it 4-3 to Ambrit. It looked like that might be enough, but a combination of some dubious refereeing, some determination from Nomen and some scandalous defending led to another equaliser from a long ball scramble.

1.12.23

BOYS INTRAMURAL: Exciting last round of games coming up

 With one round of games to go, GALATASARAY and BORUSSIA are already in the semi-finals.Who will join them?

Atletico, City and Napoli are all on 4 points.

Napoli face Galatasaray.

City face Borussia.

Atletico face a weakened PSV.

The INTRAMURAL computer PREDICTS:

Atletico to win and qualify for the SFs; City and Napoli to lose, with Napoli going through on the head-to-head rule!

Atletico 2-3 Galatasaray

 With captain and talisman Giovanni sidelined for disciplinary reason - and Antonio F too - it looked like Atletico might be able to take advantage but Galatasaray started strongly again. A nice move down the left involving Gabriele and Lorenzo set Claudio up but his shot was just wide. Claudio did score minutes later though with a free kick from distance, but Max equalised almost immediately when he pounced on a loose back pass and shot to the corner. Galatasaray took the lead again - Edoardo scoring off a Claudio assist - but Kevin equalised with a beautiful goal, struck cleanly into the top corner. Kevin's celebrations earned him a second yellow and he was barely off the pitch before Claudio shot from afar to capture the lead for the third, last and decisive time.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Claudio 5, Kevin 3, Edoardo 2, Lorenzo G 2, Lorenzo I 2, Adriano 2, Max 2, Gabriele T 1, Martino 1, Samuel 1

30.11.23

Albania 1-1 France

Un match godibile e combattuto, giocato a viso aperto da tutte e due le formazioni alla ricerca del gol, solo sfiorato nel primo tempo da Sara P., quando - lanciata a rete - ha tirato a botta sicura prendendo però la traversa. Il secondo tempo è volato via, sulla fisicità di Aurora, Lavinia, Erin e la sorprendete Valerie, a contendersi il pallone a centrocampo, senza tuttavia trovare la zampata decisiva. Freydis e Jiayi in porta hanno mostrato attenzione e nervi saldi. Il terzo tempo è stato decisivo per lo spetttacolo: quando una punizione di Aurora ha portato in vantaggio l'Albania, la Francia si è gettata in avanti alla ricerca del pareggio. Prima un tiro debole di Sara, poi una punizione di Lavinia, finita di poco alta, poi la sospirata rete del pari, su rimessa laterale della stessa Lavinia, sfiorata da un difensore e finita alle spalle del portiere.

Un pari giusto, che scontenta qualcuno, ma che accende il dibattito della vigilia: chi sarà la squadra campione di questo primo intramural? Con questo risultato infatti, Francia e Albania si qualificano per la finalissima!

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Lavinia 3, Aurora 3, Erin 2, Livia 2, Valerie 2, Anna Laura 1, Sara P 1, Angela 1, Caterina 1, Zoe 1, Jiayi 1, Carla 1, Sophie 1, Sara W 1.

29.11.23

PSV 2-2 Napoli

 Napoli's recent run of form continued today and they came away with another valuable point. They started quickly and Diego A put them ahead after 5'. Vittorio came closest for PSV in this first period with a clever back heel that almost went in, but Diego I added a second for Napoli before the break, with a trademark thunderbolt from outside the area. 

PSV woke up in period 2. Ashton set up Lucas for an unmissable shot at the far post... but Lucas missed! Rocco stepped up soon after and his determination had his team level at the end of period 2, a doppietta from RR. No change to the scoreline in period 3. Rocco had the ball in the back of the net but th3 whistle had already blown for a Vittorio push on Luca.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Rocco 6, Diego A 3, Ashton 3, Diego I 2, Josh 2, Giovanni M 2, Luca 1, Vittorio 1, Steve 1