FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup
China PR kept pace through the opening four kicks, but their fifth penalty sailed over the crossbar as Italy advanced to the quarter-finals.
After falling behind to Karen Appiah's first-half strike, the East Asian side responded after the break and were rewarded in the 73rd minute when Wang Dantong's looping effort was spilled over the line by Italy goalkeeper Elena Belli for an own goal.
China PR pushed Italy onto the back foot after that as they searched for a second, with the Italians struggling to contain the sustained pressure.
The score remained level through regulation time and extra time, with China PR goalkeeper Liu Chen producing a superb save to deny Marta Zamboni and keep her side in the contest.
The tie was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, where Italy converted all five of their attempts.
Photos: FIFA via Getty Images
