Leeds United youngster Wilfried Gnonto was a second-half substitute For Italy in their defeat to France at the U21s European Championship. Fresh from international duty with the senior side, Whites' striker Gnonto linked up with his team-mates in Romania to kick start his tournament.
In what was described as a "scandalous" defeat to France in their opening game of the competition, Italy went down 2-1 but they should have shared the spoils from the group encounter.
With no VAR in place at the UEFA tournament, France went in front through Arnaud Kalimeundo on 22 minutes. Italy were back on level terms thanks to soon to be Newcastle midfielder, Sando Tonali, who delivered a perfect set-play for Pietri Pellegrini to finish nine minutes before half-time.
After the break, Bradley Barcola put France ahead with 63 minutes played but Italy thought they'd levelled when Raoul Bellanova's effort crept over the line. However, with no VAR the goal was not awarded to leave Gnonto and Italy fuming.
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The 19-year-old was brought down on the edge of the area which saw Loic Balde shown a red card to hand Italy a boost heading into the final few minutes, but they couldn't take advantage of their additional man.
The Leeds United forward had a quiet start to the game but was praised for his ability to create problems in the final third, but others claimed he could do more in their player ratings from the tie.
Football Italia said: "5.5 Forced Badé to a red card, but overall he could have created more in the final third."
Gazetta dello Sport said: "6.5. Shy entrance, it goes wild in the finale and creates dangers."
