Arianna Caruso shines as Italy edge Belgium in EURO 2025 opener

Italy commenced their 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship with a slim 1-0 win against Belgium, breaking a streak of three consecutive head-to-head losses. This marks Belgium's third successive participation in the tournament, and they are showing signs of improvement at the elite level, having even defeated the reigning champions, England, in the UEFA Nations League earlier this year.

After observing a minute’s silence for the tragic loss of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, Belgium started positively, creating several threatening opportunities, although they did not trouble their opponents significantly.

Related News: Mary Earps announces surprise retirement ahead of Women’s Euros

Italy registered the first shot on target midway through the first half when Arianna Caruso forced a save from Lisa Lichtfus, while Marian Toloba narrowly missed the post at the other end.

It was not until the last five minutes of the first half that the match intensified. Tessa Wullaert, found in the box, struck past the post, and shortly after, Jill Janssens’ long-range effort flew over the bar.

The Belgians would come to regret Wullaert's miss, especially when Caruso broke the deadlock just before halftime with a well-placed shot from just inside the box, leaving Lichtfus with no chance.

After the break, Belgium sought to respond, with Wullaert heading directly at Italy's goalkeeper Laura Giuliani around the hour mark. Soon after, the Azzurre had a golden chance to extend their lead, but Lichtfus made a great save to deny Cristiani Girelli’s clever backheel, before Caruso sent a powerful strike just past the woodwork.

Substitute Michaela Cambiaghi later curled an effort just wide of the post as Italy aimed to create more breathing room. Ultimately, however, Caruso’s goal was all Italy required to clinch the three points.

After being eliminated in the group stage of the last two European Championships, Italy is now optimistic about advancing to the knockout rounds, having secured their second opening victory in the tournament over the last six editions.

On the other hand, Belgium faces a tough challenge, particularly with the reigning FIFA World Cup champions, Spain, looming on the horizon - a team they recently suffered a 5-0 defeat against.