Four Super Eagles-eligible players were in action as Italy thrashed Sweden 4-0 in a 2027 European U21 Championship qualifier at Borås Arena on Tuesday evening, allnigeriasoccer.com reports. 

Azzurrini manager Silvio Baldini handed starting berths to Michael Kayode, Luca Koleosho and Jeff Ekhator, while Atalanta centre-back Honest Ahanor made his Italy U21 debut.

Wearing the number 15 jersey, Ahanor came off the bench midway through the second half to replace Davide Bartesaghi, with Italy already 4-0 up following Koleosho's first half brace and assist for the third goal.

Ahanor earned his maiden call-up to Italy U21s after obtaining an Italian passport upon reaching the age of majority in February 2026. 

The 18-year-old had been an unused substitute last Thursday as Italy U21s defeated North Macedonia in the first of their March internationals.

By making his competitive debut against Sweden, Ahanor is now provisionally cap-tied to his country of birth, meaning he would require Fifa clearance if he decides to represent the Super Eagles in the future.

The Aversa-born defender had been on the radar of the Nigeria Football Federation but has chosen to represent Italy for now.

Stefano Okaka, Destiny Udogie and Angelo Ogbonna all played for Italy U21s before earning their senior caps for the four-time world champions.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel