The Women’s Euro 2025 continued to deliver thrilling storylines and dramatic moments as Group B came to a nail-biting conclusion. Italy, despite falling short in their final group game, secured a place in the quarter-finals alongside Spain. Meanwhile, heartbreak struck Portugal, who were eliminated after a painful loss to Belgium.
This twist-filled finale showcased the razor-thin margins that separate glory from disappointment in top-tier football. Italy’s tactical discipline, Spain’s consistency, Belgium’s resilience, and Portugal’s missed opportunities combined to shape a compelling narrative in this year’s European Championship.
Italy Stumble but Advance
Italy faced Spain in what was expected to be the clash of titans in Group B. Both teams had collected four points from their previous two games, and the winner would top the group. But even a draw would see both nations progress unless an unlikely goal difference shift emerged from the Belgium-Portugal match.
Spain dominated possession in their trademark fashion, pressing high and controlling tempo with precise passing. Italy, under head coach Milena Bertolini, deployed a compact formation, aiming to frustrate the Spanish midfield and capitalize on the counterattack.
Despite their best efforts, Italy succumbed to a 2-1 defeat. Goals from Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí showcased Spain’s finesse, while Italy responded with a late strike from Valentina Giacinti. The result meant Spain finished top of Group B with seven points, while Italy, with four points and a superior goal difference over Portugal, secured second place.
Bertolini “We Knew the Risks But We Trust Our System”
Speaking post-match, Milena Bertolini expressed a mix of satisfaction and determination:
“We never came into this game expecting it to be easy. Spain are one of the best teams in the world. We accepted the risk of playing compact and defensive because we believed it was our best route forward. Despite the loss, I’m proud of the team’s effort and resilience. Now we focus on the next challenge.”
Italy will face the winner of Group C in the quarter-finals, a match that promises to test their adaptability.
Portugal’s Exit The Agony of Narrow Margins
For Portugal, the stakes were simple: they needed to beat Belgium and hope the Spain-Italy result worked in their favor. The task, while not impossible, required discipline and urgency.
From the kickoff, Portugal showed promise. Jessica Silva and Diana Silva led an aggressive front line that troubled the Belgian defense. However, failure to convert key chances haunted the Portuguese.
Belgium, showing defensive solidity and clinical finishing, took the lead just before halftime through Tessa Wullaert. The second half saw Portugal pour forward in search of an equalizer, leaving gaps at the back. Belgium capitalized again, sealing the game 2-0 and ensuring Portugal’s exit from the competition.
Francisco Neto “We Gave Our All, But It Wasn’t Enough”
Portugal’s head coach, Francisco Neto, couldn’t hide his disappointment:
“I believe we played with heart and courage, but we lacked the finishing touch. These are the margins at this level. One goal, one missed opportunity—they make all the difference. It’s painful, but we will learn and grow.”
Portugal finish the group with three points and a negative goal difference, narrowly missing out on the knockout stage.
Belgium’s Upset Performance
Belgium were seen by many as the underdogs of Group B. Yet, they leave the tournament with heads held high. Their victory over Portugal marked their first win in a Women’s Euro group stage in over a decade. Although it wasn’t enough to send them to the quarter-finals, the Red Flames earned praise for their spirited performances.
Head coach Ives Serneels hailed the team’s progression:
“We set out to challenge expectations and play with courage. Beating Portugal is a big moment for us, and while we’re disappointed not to advance, we’ve made great strides.”
Spain Continue to Impress
Spain’s performance in the group stage reaffirmed their status as one of the tournament favorites. Their mix of youth and experience, tactical fluidity, and technical prowess makes them a formidable opponent.
Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí have been standout performers, orchestrating midfield dominance and contributing key goals. The return of Jenni Hermoso from injury has also boosted morale and attacking options.
Their quarter-final opponent is yet to be determined, but few will envy the team that faces Spain in the next round.
What’s Next for the Quarter-Finalists
- Italy will need to address defensive vulnerabilities exposed by Spain. While their tactical shape has generally held strong, the lack of pressing in midfield allowed Spain too much control.
Possible changes in the next match include shifting to a back-three and utilizing fullbacks like Lisa Boattin to offer more support in wide areas. Additionally, Cristiana Girelli’s form as a super-sub might earn her a starting spot.
Spain, on the other hand, are riding a wave of momentum. Their depth allows for tactical rotation without weakening the squad. The main challenge for head coach Jorge Vilda will be managing expectations and keeping the squad mentally sharp.
Lessons for Portugal and Belgium
For Portugal, the tournament offers a bittersweet learning curve. While elimination is disappointing, the emergence of younger players like Andreia Norton and the solid leadership of Dolores Silva offer hope for future tournaments. The focus now shifts to the World Cup qualifiers and preparing a deeper bench.
Belgium will return home with confidence restored. The team’s development under Ives Serneels has been steady, and with several talented youth players waiting in the wings, their long-term outlook is promising.
Fan Reactions and Media Coverage
Fans across Europe responded passionately to Group B’s final matchday. Italian supporters, though anxious, celebrated their team’s survival and progression. Social media was awash with tributes to Giacinti and Putellas, who exchanged shirts after the game as a sign of mutual respect.
Portuguese fans expressed heartbreak but pride. Hashtags like #OrgulhoPortugal and #ForcaGuerreiras trended as tributes poured in for the team’s commitment and fighting spirit.
Belgium’s victory prompted admiration from pundits who labeled their performance “mature and inspired,” with Wullaert earning plaudits for her leadership.
Tactical Breakdown Italy vs Spain
- Spain: Deployed a 4-3-3 with Putellas and Bonmatí orchestrating midfield play. Their high pressing forced Italy into long balls and isolated counters.
- Italy: Began with a 4-4-2 shape, dropping into a 5-4-1 during Spain’s build-up. Lacked transitions in midfield but held strong in the box until late stages.
Expected Goals (xG): Spain 2.7 – 0.9 Italy
Spain’s expected goals underline their dominance, while Italy’s late burst helped them register their lone goal.
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