16-Year-Old Arena’s Debut Ends in Heartbreak as Torino Strike Late to Eliminate Roma
Roma’s Coppa Italia campaign ended in heartbreak on Tuesday as they fell 3-2 at home to Torino, despite a stunning debut goal from 16-year-old prodigy Antonio Arena.
With the score at 2-1 in the final 10 minutes, Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini introduced the Australian-born centre forward, who has represented Italy at youth level since last year.
Torino had taken the lead through Che Adams, who scored either side of a Mario Hermoso strike, putting the visitors ahead and leaving Roma chasing the game.
Arena’s introduction electrified the Stadio Olimpico. On his very first touch, the teenager powered a header into the net to level the score, sparking scenes of jubilation among the home fans.
The celebration was short-lived, however. Emirhan Ilkhan struck in the 90th minute to seal a dramatic win for Torino, who will now face Serie A leaders Inter Milan in the next round.
Roma’s exit adds to a difficult run of form for the Giallorossi. Once briefly atop the Serie A table after matchday 12, they have lost four of their last eight league fixtures and currently sit fifth in the standings.
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