Football Academy Andria triumphed in the 2025 edition of the Pulcino d’Oro Puglia, lifting the trophy at the end of a thrilling final round featuring the region’s best youth teams. The competition, held on April 5 and 6 in Bari at the headquarters of partner club Levante Azzurro, crowned the Apulian team, which secured a spot in the prestigious international phase of the Pulcino d’Oro. The Pulcino d’Oro International Tournament, which will be held from June 12 to 15 in Levico Terme, will therefore feature Football Academy Andria, ready to challenge international teams in an event that promises to be unforgettable for young football talent. The tournament promises to be one of the most significant youth events of the year, with teams arriving from all over the world: Eastern Europe, Africa, South America, and the Middle East. It will be the perfect opportunity to see the most promising young footballers in action.
After European successes in England (with Middlesbrough), the Netherlands (with German side RB Leipzig), Portugal (with Benfica), and Italy (with victories for Accademia Dieci e Lode, Ostiamare Lido Calcio, and Andria), the 2025 Pulcino d’Oro will stop in three Italian regions on Saturday, April 12th and Sunday, April 13th: from Lombardy to Milan, to Umbria (in the province of Perugia), passing through Friuli Venezia-Giulia (in the province of Pordenone). Now in its tenth edition, the tournament saw an intense sporting battle in Puglia involving numerous local teams and beyond. Football Academy Andria prevailed over Levante Azzurro and Wonderful to take first place, while the Pulcino d’Argento (Silver) was won by Nicassio, who defeated Monospolis. The Pulcino di Bronzo (Bronze) was lifted by Audace Cerignola, followed by Bisceglie and Soccer Dream, while Barletta won the Yellow-and-blue trophy. The Pulcino Arcobaleno (Rainbow) awards saw Evolution Altamura win the Pulcino Rosso (Red), Franco Selvaggi Matera the Pulcino Verde (Green), Paolo Di Giorgio the Pulcino Bianco (White), and Gran Football Corato the Pulcino Blu (Blue).
The Pulcino d’Oro Tournament stands out for its unique format, which allows all teams to stay in the game until the end, giving every child the opportunity to compete for a trophy. This format has been highly appreciated in Italy and abroad, ensuring healthy competition and a fun, respectful playing atmosphere. Domenico Lieggi, manager of Levante Azzurro Bari, enthusiastically commented on the success of the Puglia stage: “The Pulcino d’Oro Tournament is something unique. It’s not just a soccer tournament; it’s a special experience that leaves a lasting impression on the hearts of those who participate. Our format allows children to fully express their imagination, speed, technique, and intuition. Every match is an opportunity to test themselves, while the smiles on every child’s faces at the end of the tournament confirm that our initiative is a success. This innovation represents an opportunity for young soccer players to grow, preparing them for unique experiences in a healthy and stimulating environment.”
The Golden Pulcino is in full swing. The upcoming weekend promises to be packed and exciting, with three Italian events in two days. Much attention is focused on the Milan event, now in its third year, featuring teams of the caliber of Atalanta and Como. Next up will be Umbria, a newcomer, and Friuli Venezia-Giulia, in its second year.