Heartbreak for new Newcastle United signing Antonito | OneFootball

It wasn’t to be for new Newcastle United signing Antonio Cordero (popularly known as Antonito).

Having became United’s first summer signing in early June, the teenager headed off with Spain to the Under 19 Euro Finals in Romania.

Antonito and his teammates having a great tournament but falling at the last hurdle.

A very tight final against the Netherlands was decided by a second half own goal, leaving Spain as runners up.

The final saw a total of 33 shots (Spain 16, Netherlands 17) but neither team could score a goal of their own, with that 62nd minute own goal by Raul Jimenez proving to be the decisive moment.

The Newcastle United teenager played until the 77th minute, Antonito one of five players taken off in the final half hour as Spain chased the game.

Thursday’s final was in stark contrast to a remarkable semi-final goalfest, that saw Spain eventually win 6-5 in extra time against Germany.

Spain had earlier topped their group, winning all three games.

Antonito starting in the wins over Denmark and Romania, then coming off the bench in the third and final group win over Montenegro, after he and other first choice players had been rested with qualification already assured.

Spain finishing top of Group A, winning all three matches, Antonito starting in the first two wins against Denmark and Romania, then with his side safely through to the semi-finals, the Newcastle winger was rested for the final group match. Only coming on late as the Spain Under 19s won 5-0 against Montenegro.

England were knocked out in the group stage, winning none of their three matches.

Interesting now to see what happens with Antonito when he joins up with Newcastle United for pre-season next month. It had been assumed that like Yankuba Minteh two years ago, the Spanish teenager will be sent out on loan for a season to get regular first team football elsewhere.