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The Cuban team wrote one of the most memorable chapters in its football history by drawing 2-2 against Italy, the reigning world runner-up, during the group stage of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025.
The outcome, achieved after an epic comeback in the second half, leaves the Caribbean team with real chances of advancing to the knockout stage for the first time, according to the site JIT.
A challenging first half
The match began with Italian dominance and two goals against Cuba before halftime. The Caribbean team looked disconnected, but everything changed in the locker room.
At the end of the first half, Italy suffered the expulsion of Jamal Iddrissou due to a second yellow card, which left the Europeans with one fewer player and opened a window of hope for the Cubans.
The Cuban reaction: two penalties and cold blood
The second half was completely different. Jade Quiñones, named Player of the Match, led a Cuban attack that kept pressing with speed and talent. At the 70-minute mark, after a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty in favor of Cuba.
The person in charge was Michael Camejo, who scored calmly despite the pressure of the moment. This goal meant much more than just a consolation: it revitalized the spirit of the team and the fans, who chanted from the stands as if they were at home.
Minutes later, in another play inside the Italian box, Didier Reinoso was brought down. The main referee initially missed it, but after reviewing it on VAR, he awarded a second penalty to Cuba. Once again, Camejo took on the responsibility, and with a delicate touch, he scored the historic equalizer at 2-2, becoming the hero of the night.
“A few months ago, I was coming out of a knee operation and I thought I wouldn’t be able to play in this World Cup. Scoring two goals against Italy is the most amazing thing that has happened to me. Someday I will tell my son who is about to be born,” Camejo stated in tears to JIT.
The draw marks the first point earned by a Cuban national team in a U-20 World Cup, a historic achievement that fuels optimism for qualification.
Next challenge: Australia
Cuba will now travel to Santiago de Chile, where they will face Australia, the Asian champion, in three days. Australia comes off a 4-1 defeat to Argentina. A positive result in that match could place Cuba among the 16 best teams in the world, an unprecedented achievement for the island's football.
Frequently asked questions about Cuba's historic draw in the U-20 World Cup
How did Cuba manage to tie with Italy in the U-20 World Cup?
Cuba managed to tie 2-2 with Italy thanks to two penalties converted by Michael Camejo in the second half. The Cuban team displayed a remarkable comeback after being two goals down in the first half, taking advantage of the expulsion of an Italian player.
What does this draw mean for the Cuban Under-20 national team?
The historic draw against Italy gives Cuba its first point in a U-20 World Cup and fuels hopes of advancing to the Round of 16 for the first time in its history. This result is a significant boost for Cuban youth soccer.
Who was the standout player of the match between Cuba and Italy?
Jade Quiñones was named Player of the Match for his leadership and performance in the Cuban attack. His speed and talent were crucial in maintaining pressure on the Italian team during the second half.
What is the next challenge for Cuba in the U-20 World Cup?
The next challenge for Cuba will be to face Australia in Santiago, Chile. A positive result against Australia could lead Cuba to the round of 16, something unprecedented for Cuban football at this level.
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