In the picturesque landscape of Turin and the Susa Valley, the Juventus Academy World Cup 2024 showcased the future stars of football, bringing together young talents from five continents. This year marked the fifth edition of the prestigious tournament, and the 2011 class of Juventus Academy from Santiago de Chile made a notable impact, reaching the final for the fourth consecutive time.
The tournament started with high energy and fierce competition, with Santiago de Chile placed in the SZCZESNY GROUP along with Academy Dushanbe, Academy Macclesfield and Academy Scotland. The Chilean team showed their prowess from the start, defeating Academy Scotland 3-2 in a closely contested match. They then demonstrated their offensive brilliance with overwhelming 9-0 wins against Academy Macclesfield and Academy Dushanbe, topping the group with an impressive goal difference.
Advancing to the second round, Santiago de Chile found themselves in the WHITE GROUP, facing Academy Istanbul (Black Squad), Academy Devon and Academy Istanbul (White Squad). The team continued their dominant form, winning all of their matches: a narrow 2-1 victory over Academy Devon and convincing 4-0 and 4-1 victories against the black and white Istanbul squads respectively. With 10 goals scored and only 2 conceded, the Chilean team topped the group with the maximum points, securing their place in the long-awaited final.
The final showdown took place at the iconic Juventus Allianz Stadium, a venue steeped in football history. The team from Santiago de Chile faced Academy Los Angeles, another formidable team that impressed throughout the tournament. The atmosphere was electric, with fans and families filling the stands, eager to witness the crowning of the new champions.
The final was an exciting match. Academy Los Angeles struck first, taking an early lead. However, Santiago de Chile responded with determination and skill, working hard to even the score. With Academy Los Angeles leading 1-0 at halftime, the second half was full of emotions and goals. The match was a testament to the high level of competition, with both teams displaying exceptional talent and teamwork.
In the end, despite a valiant effort and a remarkable display of football, the Santiago de Chile team narrowly missed out on the title, with Academy Los Angeles taking the 3-2 victory. The Chilean players left the field with their heads held high, having once again proven their worth on an international stage.
Speaking after the match, the Santiago de Chile team’s sporting director, Piotr Haluch, praised his players for their dedication and spirit. “These young athletes have shown incredible heart and skill throughout the tournament. Reaching the final for the fourth time in a row is a testament to their hard work and passion for the game. Although we are saddened not to have won, we are proud of our journey and hope to come back stronger next year.”
