The Azurri earns 2-1 win over La Vinotinto during a sensational night of fúbol in South Florida
Tonight, a vibrant Chase Stadium witnessed a thrilling showcase of international fútbol that saw Italy and Venezuela face off for the first time in history, with the Azzurri securing a 2-1 win over La Vinotinto. Both national teams ignited the atmosphere in a clash that transcended borders and united fans during a phenomenal night of fútbol in South Florida, which also served as key preparation for both teams as they look ahead to key summer competitions, with Italy playing the Euro 2024 in Germany and Venezuela participating in the Copa América 2024 in the United States.
Four-time World Cup winner Italy returned to the United States after nearly two decades and they did so in a big way. After a huge penalty save from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 3rd minute, the Italians netted the first goal of the night in the 40th minute courtesy of forward Mateo Retegui. Shortly after, Venezuela tied the game only three minutes later with a goal from attacker Darwin Machís that sent fans in the stands into a total frenzy. Italian fans got the last cheer, however, when Retegui secured the winning goal of the night for Italy and his brace in the 80th minute.
The energy of the fans from both teams was electrifying, with the stands decorated in a sea of blue and maroon jerseys, representing the Azzurri and La Vinotinto.
“We were welcomed in a wonderful way. It was an embrace full of love and affection. After living this experience, I’m sure that we made the right decision to come here. It brings me a lot of joy and pride to see the blue jersey and be welcomed with so much love outside of Italy.” said Italy national team coach, Luciano Spalletti.
"It was a very nice spectacle and people were able to see both Venezuela and Italy. I have no doubt that we provided a nice exhibition to our fans," said Venezuela national team head coach Fernando Batista.
Prior to the match, both teams trained at the state-of-the-art Florida Blue Training Center during the week leading up to the game. The facility consists of a 50,000-square-foot training facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which boasts six natural grass fields and one turf for the development of professional and youth players. Chase Stadium is located just across the street.
The international friendly was the fourth at Inter Miami’s world-class home in 2024, as January saw the international matchups between Guatemala and Iceland, Peruvian side Club Universitario and Colombian team Club Atlético Nacional, and Honduras and Iceland take place.
