CNN —The Women’s World Cup saw a moment that will live long in the memory for 16-year-old Giulia Dragoni as she started for Italy against Argentina on Monday.
Dragoni – born on November 7, 2006 – began the Group G clash in the heart of Italy’s midfield and became the youngest player to represent Italy in the competition’s history.
In contrast, 39-year-old Vanina Correa was in goal for Argentina – she had already made her debut for her country when Dragoni was born.
Italy – quarterfinalist in 2019 – was the strongest team throughout the opening game for both sides at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, with some late quality from Cristiana Girelli proving decisive as Italy won 1-0.
After the break, with both sides not wanting to lose their opening game, chances were few and far between with the teams prioritizing the avoidance of mistakes over attacking recklessness.
Persons:
Giulia Dragoni, Dragoni –, –, ‘ Little Messi, ’, Vanina Correa, Argentina –, Dragoni, Italy –, Girelli, Arianna Caruso, Valentina Giacinti, Cristiana Girelli, Kim Price, she’s
Organizations:
CNN, Argentina, FIFA, Italy – quarterfinalist, Italy
Locations:
Italy, European, Italy’s, Barcelona, Eden, Auckland , New Zealand, Argentina