'Not afraid of anything': Sydney-born teenager scores on professional debut for Roma
Updated . First published at
Australian-born teenager Antonio Arena has put the world on notice, scoring a goal in his debut for Roma in the Coppa Italia competition.
The 16-year-old, who was born in Sydney and came through the Wanderers academy before relocating to Italy, produced a magical moment on Wednesday morning (AEDT).
In his first touch just three minutes into his debut for Serie A club Roma, the talented teen headed home a goal to level the scores at 2-2 against Torino in the 81st minute.
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Antonio Arena celebrates his goal on debut. NurPhoto via Getty Images
Arena's goal was his first-ever touch in professional football after being substituted into the contest just one minute before scoring the equaliser.
The youngster celebrated by knee-sliding across the turf before being embraced by his teammates as the crowd erupted at the Stadio Olimpico.
The striker has represented both Italy and Australia at youth level and holds dual citizenship, which could lead to an interesting decision down the line similar to Cristian Volpato, who also had the choice to play for the Socceroos but instead pledged his allegiance to the Azzurri and declined a green and gold jersey at the 2022 World Cup.
He signed for Roma in July 2025 after spending time with Serie C outfit Pescara, where he scored one goal in four appearances.
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini heaped praise on the prodigy.
"He's physically strong, not afraid of anything and has great stamina," he said of Arena.
"I don't know if he'll always be a centre forward, still has to grow ... but for his age, he's very well developed."
Arena's goal was cancelled out in stoppage time by Emirhan Ilkhan as Torino advanced through to the quarter finals of the Italian knockout competition.
