Can Spain and Italy Maintain Their Dominance in Women’s Euro 2025?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Spain and Italy have launched their UEFA Women’s European Championship campaigns with impressive victories. Spain dominated Portugal in a 5-0 rout, while Italy edged out Belgium 1-0, setting the stage for thrilling matches ahead. Will these teams continue their winning streaks as they progress in the tournament?
Key Takeaways
- Spain showcased their dominance with a 5-0 victory over Portugal.
- Esther Gonzalez scored two goals for Spain in their opener.
- Italy avenged their previous defeat against Belgium with a 1-0 win.
- Emotional tributes to Diogo Jota marked the beginning of the tournament.
- Upcoming matches will be critical in determining group standings.
Bern (Switzerland), July 4 (NationPress) - Spain and Italy kicked off their UEFA Women’s European Championship journeys with commanding victories on Thursday.
This day, filled with heartfelt tributes to the late Diogo Jota of Portugal and Liverpool, who tragically lost his life in a car accident, saw the football world unite in emotional support while delivering stunning performances.
The reigning world champions, Spain, made a clear statement in Euro 2025 by overwhelming Portugal 5-0 in their opening match of Group B at Wankdorf Stadium. A minute’s silence was observed in honor of Jota, as the nearly 30,000 attendees in Bern paid their respects.
Esther Gonzalez, at 32, the oldest player in the Spanish squad, made her presence felt immediately by scoring just 87 seconds into the match with a clever flick past Portuguese goalkeeper Ines Pereira. Shortly after, 18-year-old Vicky Lopez, the youngest player on the team, extended Spain’s lead by tapping in after a clearance from Pereira fell into the path of Mariona Caldentey.
Spain’s captain, Alexia Putellas, who missed the last Euros due to injury, showcased her brilliance, netting Spain’s third goal with exquisite control and a precise finish. Gonzalez then added her second before halftime, converting a rebound from Clàudia Pina’s cross that struck the post.
The first-half display from Spain was a masterclass in coordination and movement, with their passing and pressing keeping Portugal in a state of disarray. Though the second half saw a slight drop in intensity, substitute Cristina Martin-Prieto capped the victory with a superb header in stoppage time.
Meanwhile, in Sion, Italy secured a narrow 1-0 win over Belgium, avenging their Euro 2022 group-stage loss. The match at Stade de Tourbillon also began with a moment of silence for Jota and his brother, which was respectfully observed by all present.
In a tightly contested first half, Belgium’s captain Tessa Wullaert posed a significant threat, coming close to scoring twice. However, Italy broke the deadlock just before halftime, with Lucia Di Guglielmo finding Arianna Caruso unmarked on the edge of the area. The Bayern Munich midfielder advanced and curled a stunning shot into the top corner.
This solitary goal proved crucial in a match where opportunities were scarce. This victory gives Italy a vital advantage early in the group stage, where Spain is the frontrunner, leaving Belgium, Italy, and Portugal to vie for the second-place spot and a chance to advance to the quarterfinals.
Spain is set to face Belgium next, while Italy will challenge Portugal on Monday, with both matches potentially pivotal for Group B's dynamics.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the emotional weight carried by the opening matches of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. The tribute to Diogo Jota reminded us of the fragility of life, yet the performances of Spain and Italy showcased the resilience of the sport. Both teams have set a high bar for their competitors, and it will be intriguing to see how the rest of the tournament unfolds.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the scores of the opening matches in Women’s Euro 2025?
Spain defeated Portugal 5-0, and Italy won against Belgium 1-0.
Who scored the first goal for Spain in their match against Portugal?
Esther Gonzalez scored the first goal for Spain just 87 seconds into the match.
What tribute was paid before the matches?
A minute’s silence was observed in memory of Diogo Jota and his brother, who tragically passed away.
When will Spain and Italy play their next matches?
Spain will face Belgium and Italy will take on Portugal on Monday.
What is the significance of these early wins for Spain and Italy?
These victories give both teams a crucial advantage in their quest to progress through the tournament.
