Antonio Arena: 16-year-old Australian scores on AS Roma debut

Kieran Francis

Antonio Arena: 16-year-old Australian scores on AS Roma debut image

Australian teenager Antonio Arena has scored with his first touch for Italian giants AS Roma in a 3-2 Coppa Italia defeat to Torino.

The 16-year-old was substituted on for his club debut in the 80th minute and sent Roma fans wild with an 81st minute equaliser.

Arena rose highest among a sea of defenders to head home the goal which made the score 2-2, wheeling away in awe to celebrate with his teammates and fans.

However, Antonio Conte's side couldn't use the momentum from Arena's strike, with Torino scoring a stoppage time winner.

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The Australian-born 188cm striker is eligible to play for the Socceroos and also Italy through his parents heritage, having moved to his family's country when he was 13.

Arena has already played for Australia's U16 national team in 2024, but then turned out for Italy at the U17 World Cup in November, with his birth nation not qualifying.

He starred for the Azzurri at the event, scoring twice and setting up two goals as Italy finished third.

Arena moved to Italy when he was 13, signing for Italy third division club Pescara, becoming the club's youngest goalscorer and the first player born in 2009 to score a goal in professional football.

This saw intense interest in the youngster, who was snapped up by Roma in July.

Staff Writer