The Young Lions faced Italy in the last eight in Larnaca, Cyprus, with Mheuka in from the start and leading the attack.

England took the lead after 16 minutes when Ethan Nwaneri thumped home after good work from Mikey Moore. But the Italians drew level close to the half-hour mark when AC Milan's Mattia Liberali produced a classy finish.

Coach Greg Lincoln introduced midfielder Harrison from the bench at the interval as England went in search of a winner.

And they were the better side in the second half with Mheuka going close by forcing an excellent save from Italy's goalkeeper Alessandro Longoni and Harrison having an effort cleared off the line.

But despite controlling the contest and creating the better chances across the 90 minutes, England were unable to find a decisive goal.

That meant a place in the semi-finals would be determined via a penalty shootout – and Italy maintained a perfect record from the spot to win 5-4.

It means the end of the road for Mheuka and Harrison in Cyprus but both can be proud of their efforts over the last ten days.