Both teams had hoped to end the tournament on a high, following the disappointment of 1-0 defeats in their respective semi-finals.

Another closely fought contest played out in Gdynia Stadium, with both teams unable to make a breakthrough during the 90 minutes.

The theme continued in extra time with Italy missing a golden opportunity to break the deadlock.

Marco Olivieri saw a penalty saved by Ecuador’s goalkeeper and his frustration increased minutes later when he was shown a straight red card for a late challenge.

But the Italian was handed a reprieve when a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review led to the sanction being reduced to a caution.

The extra-time drama continued when Ecuador struck moments before the interval, Richard Mina firing home at the back post following a free-kick.

Italy were unable to muster a response in the second period of extra time and Ecuador celebrated a 1-0 victory.

The third-place finish marked Ecuador’s best result at the age group competition.

Ukraine and South Korea will clash in the final tomorrow at Łódź Stadium.