Goalkeeper Christian Lupo produced a heroic shoot-out display and Diego Perillo scored the decisive kick.
Belgium took the lead in the 85th minute through substitute Noa Ojea, a moment that appeared to have ended Italy's hopes, but substitute Marcello Fugazzola answered immediately with a penalty in stoppage time to force the shoot-out. Lupo — who had already saved two penalties in Italy's semi-final win over Spain — was decisive again, with Perillo completing the victory from the spot.
Italy head coach Daniele Franceschini spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport, crediting both technical quality and collective character for the triumph.
"Technical qualities, but also character, unity, cohesion. After the goal at the 85th minute I told the players to keep playing and not think about it. I always asked them not to be afraid to make mistakes, to remain positive. We were good at not losing heart and not losing concentration, giving ourselves a unique emotion."
He also addressed the broader pathway to success in Italian football.
"What these players need now is to play with more minutes, even below their age group and in challenging leagues. I'm thinking of the Primavera or Under-23 formats. Sometimes opponents are more developed in that respect."
Franceschini highlighted the inspiration the Under-17 squad drew from senior debutants of similar ages.
"It was undeniably a great stimulus. We know they followed our semi-final and cheered for us. The Azzurri shirt carries weight, but feeling part of one great family helps you dream big."
Italy's winning squad included significant talent including Empoli's Perillo, the tournament's outstanding striker, and Lecce keeper Lupo, who was dominant throughout and finished undefeated across the entire competition.