(PRIMASPORT) ASUNCION – The Italian women's roller hockey team won the bronze medal at the Senior World Championships held in Asuncion, thirty years since their last appearance in 1996. Valerio Antezza's national team defeated Portugal 3-2 in the third-place match, confirming the clear progress of the Italian women's team after six European bronze medals and four world top-four finishes.
The Azzurre built a significant lead in the first half, ending 2-0 with goals from Sofia Bertinato and Matilde Ghirardello. In the second half, Elena Tamiozzo put Italy ahead 3-0 with a solo effort. Despite Portugal's comeback with two goals from Moncovio, the Italian team held firm with solid defense and crucial saves from goalkeeper Veronica Caretta, who played a key role especially in the crucial moments.
Coach Antezza started Caretta, Rossetto, Lapolla, Tamiozzo, and Ghirardello. The team demonstrated great sacrifice and unity, especially when downed in the closing minutes. This world championship medal represents a significant milestone for two generations of players, with three players from 1998 to 2009 on the roster.
The international competition was streamed live on World Skate TV and Skate Italia TV, with Italian commentary by Stefano Zamperin and Francesco Ferrari. Highlights and interviews are available on the official Skate Italia website.
The final scoreline was Italy-Portugal 3-2 (2-0, 1-2). The Italian goals were scored by Bertinato, Ghirardello, and Tamiozzo. The national team included goalkeepers Veronica Caretta and Giorgia Meneghello, and players Lapolla, Orsato, Rossetto, Tamiozzo, Ghirardello, Bertinato, Rubega, Lamacchia, and Meneghello. (PRIMASPORT)
