Italy Secures First Women's Euro Win Since 2017 Beating Belgium

Italy secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Belgium in their Group B opener at the Women's European Championship 2025, marking their first win in the tournament since 2017. Arianna Caruso scored the decisive goal just before halftime, capitalizing on a quick pass from Lucia Di Guglielmo and calmly curling the ball past Belgium's goalkeeper Lisa Lichtfus. Despite Belgium having more possession and attempts on goal, they were unable to break through Italy's defense, with Lichtfus making several key saves, including a notable reflex stop against Cristiana Girelli's back-heel attempt. The match began with a minute's silence honoring the late Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota and his brother, who died in a car accident. This victory acts as a form of revenge for Italy, who had lost to Belgium in the previous Euro 2022 group stage and came into the match on a three-game losing streak against the Red Flames. Both teams will face tough upcoming matches, with Italy playing Portugal and Belgium facing Spain, as they compete for a spot in the quarterfinals of a tightly contested Group B.