The 10th edition of the Pulcino d’Oro International Tournament ended with a double headline-worthy triumph. River Plate claimed the Pulcino d’Oro for the third time, while AC Milan made history in the girls’ competition, lifting the Pulcino d’Oro Girls trophy for the first time after two consecutive wins by Inter.
The tournament once again proved its magnetic power, attracting 80 teams from Italy, Europe, South America, and the United Arab Emirates to Valsugana, turning the pitches of Levico Terme, Borgo Valsugana, Caldonazzo, and Ischia into an international stage for youth football.
It was an event that celebrated talent, inclusion, passion, and the future of the sport — football — offering four unforgettable days where boys and girls showcased their skills with enthusiasm, technique, and true team spirit.
River Plate Makes it Three – A Legendary Feat
In one of the most hard-fought and thrilling finals in the tournament’s history, River Plate came out on top thanks to the shootout rule, after finishing the final group stage level on points with a relentless Parma side. The Argentinians recorded one win and two draws, once again confirming themselves as one of the world’s top football academies and securing their third Pulcino d’Oro title.
Right behind them were an excellent Parma and RB Leipzig from Germany, both in the running until the very last match, which ended in a draw against the Gialloblù. Juventus finished just off the podium in fourth place, yet remained consistently competitive and brilliant throughout the tournament.
The Pulcino d’Argento went to AS Roma, ahead of Leeds United, Barcelona, and Bayer Leverkusen. The Pulcino di Bronzo was claimed by Levante Azzurro from Apulia, ahead of Giovani Fucecchio, Trento, and Voluntas Brescia. The Pulcino Gialloblù was awarded to Bologna, followed by Accademia 10 e Lode, Trastevere, and Dinamo Batumi (Georgia).
The Pulcini Arcobaleno were awarded to four outstanding Italian teams: Red to San Luigi Trieste, Green to Football Academy Andria, Light Blue to Real Sito Caserta, and White to Lavis.
Pulcino Girls: Milan Puts an End to Inter’s Streak
In the girls’ section of the tournament, the Pulcino d’Oro Girls, AC Milan achieved a historic milestone, ending Inter’s dominance after their victories in the first two editions. The all-Milan opening clash crowned the Rossonere, who overcame their Nerazzurre rivals in an intense and hard-fought match. Juventus and Roma also played key roles in the battle for the top, completing a high-level podium.
The girls’ tournament featured 16 teams and stood out for its intensity, technical quality, and outstanding participation.
The Pulcino d’Argento Girls was won by Genoa, ahead of Frosinone, Real Sala Bologna, and La Rocca Monselice.
The Pulcino d’Oro Girls Bronze went to Lady Maerne from Veneto, who finished ahead of Sedriano, Castelnuovo Garda, and Padova.
The Pulcino Girls Gialloblù was claimed by Chievo Women, who topped Pro Vercelli, Lady Maerne Venezia, and Cavolano.
The Pulcino d’Oro: More International Than Ever
With teams from all over the world and flawless organization, the Pulcino d’Oro confirms itself as one of the most prestigious and well-attended events in the European youth football scene. An event that brings together sport, culture, and passion, always aiming higher.