Republic of Ireland held by Italy in UEFA European U-17 Championship Elite Round opener

A Romeo Akachukwu finish and an own goal had given the young Boys in Green a two goal lead in Cyprus.

PROMISING START: The Republic of Ireland under 17 squad before their 2-2 draw with Italy in the opening game of the Elite Round qualifiers. Pic credit: FAI.

The Republic of Ireland Under-17s recorded a 2-2 draw with Italy in the opening game of the Uefa European U-17 Championship Elite Round qualifiers.

Romeo Akachukwu opened the scoring on 24 minutes before Colin O'Brien's team went two up when Ike Orazi forced a second that was eventually given as an own goal by Italy goalkeeper Tommaso Martinelli.