Table of Contents
Match Info Table
Fixture: Belgium Women vs Italy Women
Date: Thursday, 3 July 2025
Kick-off: 16:00 GMT (17:00 CEST)
Venue: Stade de Tourbillon, Sion
Competition: UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 – Group B
Live on: BBC (UK) / UEFA.tv (International)
Match Context
The opening game for Group B in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 sees Belgium and Italy go head-to-head in what could be a pivotal clash in the race for a quarter-final spot. With only two teams progressing from the group and heavyweights like Spain also in the mix this match carries more than just opening-day nerves; it’s a potential decider for who advances.
For Belgium, the stakes are high. After a promising Nations League run and solid pre-tournament form beating Portugal and England in recent fixtures they’ve shown they’re no longer dark horses but genuine contenders. Under coach Ives Serneels, the Red Flames have evolved into a technically gifted, high-pressing unit that thrives on creativity and quick transitions. A win here would build belief and offer them a cushion before facing tougher opposition.
Italy, meanwhile, are coming into this tournament with something to prove. Following a disappointing 2022 campaign, they’ve rebuilt with fresh energy and tactical adjustments under new leadership. They’ve looked solid in friendlies earning results against Wales, Denmark, and Sweden but questions linger about their ability to perform under pressure in competitive fixtures. Their squad blends youth and experience, and many eyes will be on how veteran striker Cristiana Girelli marshals a relatively young attacking force.
Both teams are evenly matched on paper, but with Italy struggling for consistency and Belgium riding a wave of positive momentum, this clash could set the tone for the group. Win here, and it’s one foot in the knockouts. Lose, and you’re already on the back foot with Spain likely waiting to punish any early slip-ups. It’s high stakes from the start.
Key Battles & Tactical Insight
Belgium’s midfield creativity vs Italy’s defensive structure
Belgium’s duo of Teulings and Detruyer must break down a compact Italian midfield.
Wullaert’s front-line threat vs Italy’s centre-backs
Italy’s centre-halves will need to nullify Tessa Wullaert, fresh off her goalscoring spree
Wing play: Cayman & Philtjens vs Italy’s full-backs
Belgium could exploit space out wide, where Italy’s defensive transitions may be vulnerable.
Predicted Lineups (Formation 1st Listed is Home)
Belgium (3-5-2):
GK – Nicky Evrard
RB – Amber Tysiak, CB – Isabelle Iliano, CB – Laura Deloose, LB – Janice Cayman
CM – Justine Vanhaevermaet, CM – Amber Teulings, CM – Marie Detruyer, RW – Davina Philtjens, LW – Hannah Eurlings
ST – Tessa Wullaert, ST – Mariam Toloba
Italy (4-3-3):
GK – Euridice Axen
RB – Valentina Cernoia, CB – Gaia Campagnol, CB – Sara Ceccaroli, LB – Martina Piemonte
CM – Aurora Galli, CM – Valentina Bergamaschi, CM – Cristiana Girelli
RW – Barbara Bonansea, ST – Cristiana Girelli, LW – Sofia Cantore
Players to Watch
Belgium – Tessa Wullaert: Leading scorer, in red-hot form (92 goals).
Italy – Cristiana Girelli: Experienced striker with versatility; Italy rely on her movement in the box.
Recent Forms & Statistics
Form (Last 5):
- Belgium: Beat Greece 2‑0, Lost 0‑5 to France, Beat Portugal 3‑0, Lost 1‑5 to Spain, Beat England 3‑2
- Italy: Beat Wales 4‑1, Drew 0‑0 with Sweden, Beat Denmark 3‑0, Lost 2‑3 vs Sweden, Lost 1‑3 to Denmark
H2H (Last 5 meetings):
- Belgium 2–1 Italy (2023 friendly)
- Belgium 1–0 Italy (Euro 2022 group)
- Other recent meetings also favour Belgium: 4 wins out of last 5
Bonus Stat: Belgium have won 3 of the last 4 and lead the overall H2H 4‑1.
Prediction & Final Thought
Belgium’s recent momentum and psychological edge in H2H give them the advantage. Expect a tight contest from both teams from the first whistle to the final whistle
Score Prediction: Belgium 2‑1 Italy
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