28 December 2015
What may have been a holiday destination for many over the festive period is where Juventus’ Under 12s have been competing in a prestigious tournament this week.
Taking place in Miami between 27 and 29 December, the La Liga Promises trophy is organised by the Spanish league and El Larguero Foundation with the aim of promoting youth team football.
Joined by 16 other clubs from across the world, including the likes of Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Crystal Palace, Estudiantes, Real Madrid and Valencia, Giovanni Valenti’s young guns gave a good account of themselves against tough opposition in the last two days.
After opening with a 3-2 reverse to Celta Vigo, the Bianconeri sealed back-to-back wins over Orlando City (4-2) and Atletico Madrid (2-1) before drawing 2-2 with Argentine outfit Estudiantes. Seven points saw them sew up second place in Group C to set up a quarter-final meeting this evening with Villareal, who ultimately got the better of Valenti’s charges in a game that finished 3-1.
Two all-Spanish semi-finals are on the menu on Tuesday, with Valencia taking on Sevilla and Barcelona facing Villareal.
The tournament, currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, has involved plenty of star players in the past, including Andres Iniesta, Gerard Piqué, Fernando Torres, Cesc Fabregas, Juan Mata and Thomas Müller.
