How did Italy defeat Belgium in the opening match of Women’s Euro 2025?
The start of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 did not disappoint fans’ expectations. The very first match of the tournament between Belgium and Italy delivered plenty of excitement, giving women’s football supporters a solid dose of sporting spectacle. The intense match ended with a 1–0 victory for Italy, with the only goal scored by a brilliant strike from Arianna Caruso. What decided Italy’s win? Here’s an analysis of the most important moments of the game.
Match facts and key moments
The match was played on July 3, 2025, at the picturesque Stade de Tourbillon in Sion, Switzerland. The stadium, which can accommodate around 20,000 spectators, was almost packed — and the atmosphere in the stands was exactly what you’d expect from a major tournament.
The goal that decided it all
The match was decided in the 41st minute. Italy seized the initiative after a mistake by Laura Deloose on the left wing. Lucia Di Guglielmo quickly spotted the perfectly positioned Arianna Caruso. Standing on the edge of the penalty area, Caruso immediately struck a perfectly curled shot into the top corner of the Belgian net. Goalkeeper Lise Lichtfus had no chance.
How did the game unfold?
Belgium started with a defensive 5-4-1 formation, believing it was the best way to neutralize Italy’s offensive potential while waiting for effective counterattacks. For a long time, this strategy worked. Despite Italy’s dominance in midfield, it was Belgium who created one of the first dangerous chances — but their leader, Tessa Wullaert, narrowly missed from a very promising position.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Belgium trying to find an equalizer but Italy’s clever play denying them clear opportunities. Italy could have doubled their lead: in the 65th minute Cristiana Girelli unleashed a dangerous shot, but Belgian goalkeeper Lichtfus produced a brilliant save. Despite Belgium’s efforts, the score didn’t change — Italy held on to their slender lead.
Why was this match so important?
Historically, matches between these two sides have always been evenly matched, but they have never battled for the highest honors at the UEFA Women’s Euro. Italy’s win is therefore a big mental boost for the team. For the first time since Euro 2017, Italy celebrated a victory in an opening match of the tournament — a significant achievement. Belgium, though defeated, still have many reasons to look positively at their upcoming matches. They have a strong squad and tactical versatility that could play a big role later in the championship.
Tactical battle of two contrasting systems
Team formations
Italy opted for decisive midfield play, fielding an offensive-minded 3-5-2 formation. Belgium, aware of their opponents’ quality, used a 5-4-1 formation with a deeper defensive line, looking for chances on the counterattack.
What role did the formations play?
Belgium defended well for a long time but paid dearly for a single individual mistake. Italy, on the other hand, used their advantage in midfield to control the tempo of the game. With their wing-backs pushing forward and their central midfielders actively involved, they dominated the pitch and deserved the win.
Tactical keys to Italy’s success
Italy’s biggest strength was compressing the field and applying intense pressing. Their defenders won the ball back effectively, allowing them to quickly launch new attacks. Despite Belgium’s good organization, the individual skill of Italy’s players proved decisive.
Heroes of the match: Arianna Caruso and Tessa Wullaert
Arianna Caruso
Arianna Caruso — the match’s only goalscorer — was the undisputed hero of the day. Her 16th international goal was a masterpiece of technique and composure. Throughout the match, Caruso impressed with her football intelligence and tireless work rate, influencing almost every Italian attacking move.
Tessa Wullaert
On the Belgian side, Tessa Wullaert stood out. The charismatic striker and team leader did everything she could, repeatedly unsettling Italy’s defense. Ultimately, however, she couldn’t find the net. Still, her high level of commitment and skill could prove crucial in Belgium’s next matches at this tournament.
What does this result mean for the rest of the tournament?
Italy’s win gives them a comfortable start to the tournament and great chances of reaching the quarter-finals. It will be crucial for the team to maintain their form and keep improving their on-field chemistry. The coaching staff also faces the task of managing player workload wisely and avoiding potential injuries.
Belgium is in a more difficult position, but their potential gives grounds for optimism. If the team quickly analyzes their mistakes and improves their strategy for the upcoming games, they can still hope for a positive outcome.
Opening clash summary
The first day of Euro 2025 showed us football full of passion, ambition, and tactical nuance. Both Italy and Belgium made it clear that they are hungry for more than just a supporting role. How the fate of both teams unfolds at the tournament will be revealed in the coming intense days and matches of the Women’s Euro.
One thing is already certain — women’s football is winning more and more hearts among football fans every week. Competitions like Women’s Euro 2025 only accelerate this process, offering a phenomenal football feast. We eagerly await the next chapter of the tournament!
