Analysis of a key Group B match at the Women’s European Championship
An eagerly awaited encounter is approaching, sure to attract the attention of all women’s football fans — the national teams of Belgium and Italy will face off at the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship. The opening match of Group B not only generates a lot of excitement but may also set the tone for competition in one of the toughest groups of this year’s tournament. The Belgians, eager to prove their strength after a complicated qualification campaign, will take on the consistent and experienced Italians, whose ambitious goal is to reach the medal zone.
Head-to-head history — who dominates?
The history of matches between Belgium and Italy is fairly one-sided, though recent games show that the gap between the teams is clearly narrowing. To date, the two sides have met numerous times. In recent years, Italy has generally been the dominant side in these encounters.
Head-to-head results
- The most recent match took place on October 10, 2024. Italy was already leading 2–0, but after a red card for Lorenzo Pellegrini they were forced to play shorthanded, allowing Belgium to equalize. The match ended 2–2.
- Belgium also won an important match at Euro 2022, 1–0, which contributed to Italy’s elimination in the group stage.
- Despite these two good performances by Belgium, the historical advantage remains with Italy, who has won the majority of earlier encounters.
Tactical battle of the coaches
Belgium — with new energy towards success
Under the watchful eye of Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir, Belgium showcases a solid defense and dynamic offensive play. Gunnarsdóttir prefers formations such as 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, emphasizing the role of both speedy wingers and creative midfielders.
Key players:
- Nicky Evrard (goalkeeper): indispensable between the posts, responsible for many crucial saves.
- Janice Cayman: a calming presence in defense, providing the team with the stability needed in tough matches.
Belgium alternated good games with defeats during qualifying, but repeatedly showed great potential and a desire to achieve higher goals.
Italy — adaptation as the key to success
Italy, under Andrea Soncin, is characterized by great tactical flexibility. The Italian team most often uses 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formations, and sometimes even a more offensive 3-5-2.
Key players:
- Manuela Giugliano: responsible for playmaking, dictating tempo, and creating chances.
- Elena Linari: the cornerstone of Italy’s defense, a player with vast experience on the European stage.
Thanks to a successful qualification campaign, Italy enters Euro 2025 with high hopes for success, which would further boost the popularity of women’s football in Italy.
Stars to watch
Tessa Wullaert — Belgium’s captain and record holder
Tessa Wullaert is rightly regarded as the key figure of the Belgian team. A forward with impressive precision and tactical intelligence, she often makes the difference in crucial moments. As a leader, Wullaert inspires her teammates not just on the field but off it as well — actively advocating for equality in sports.
Cristiana Girelli — star of Italy’s attack
Cristiana Girelli is a unique player — able to finish chances clinically and assist teammates at the right moment. Girelli is also an immensely experienced footballer, with an impressive track record both in the national team and at Juventus. She is undoubtedly the player Italy’s fans count on for efficiency and leadership.
The opening clash of Group B
The match on July 3, 2025, at Switzerland’s Stade de Tourbillon in Sion, takes on special significance for several reasons:
- The start of the road: Both teams are aware of how important it is to start the tournament well.
- The strength of the group: Belgium and Italy find themselves in a tough group with favorites Spain and ambitious Portugal.
- Historical context: Recent meetings add extra drama — Belgium wants to prove that its previous wins were no fluke; Italy will want to respond to their disappointment at Euro 2022.
- Team form: Belgium recently beat Greece 2–0, while Italy defeated Wales 4–1.
Experts predict an entertaining spectacle full of goals. Bookmakers’ slight edge for Italy suggests a very evenly matched clash, full of excitement right until the final whistle.
Summary — what can we expect?
Both teams approach the match confident, with clear objectives and stars capable of deciding the final result. History favors Italy, but it’s worth remembering that Belgium has found a way to beat them several times already.
Who will prevail? We will find out soon enough, but one thing is certain: this match will be a highlight of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and could significantly impact the course of the entire tournament. Fans are already waiting with bated breath!
