It was the final game of the 2008 Toulon Tournament for the young United States squad, bowing out with a 2-nil loss to Semi-Finalists Italy.

With goals by #17 Abate and #20 Dessena in the first half, Peter Nowak’s men had their backs against the wall in the second half, but were still able to create a couple of chances on the Italian goal with better possession during the last 45 minutes.

For the United States this tournament was a great opportunity for the younger players to get some great experience (2009 U-20 World Cup will have Bryan Arguez, Kyle Davies, Ellis McLoughlin and Brek Shea eligible) and for head coach Peter Nowak having a look at the final group of players who he’s hasn’t seen yet, but wanted to give an opportunity to.

When I was watching this Italian team, I couldn’t help but wonder how soon we would see #13 Coda, #20 Dessena, #17 Abate, #10 Giovinco, #19 Pelle and #9 Osvaldo in the full Italy squad?

Group A

Chile – 9 pts

Japan – 6 pts

Holland – 3 pts

France – o pts

Group B

Italy – 9 pts

Ivory Coast – 6 pts

Turkey – 3 pts

United States – 0 ptsSemi-Final matches Tuesday, starting at 12pm ET on Fox Soccer Channel with Chile facing the Ivory Coast in Semi-Final #1 and Italy versus Japan in Semi-Final #2.