Portugal responded to their heavy opening day defeat to Spain by holding Italy to a dramatic 1‑1 draw in Geneva on Monday evening, the result keeping their UEFA Women’s Euros 2025 campaign alive while denying Italy early qualification. Despite damp conditions at Stade de Genève and Italy’s dominance early on, Portugal’s late goal kept their chance of qualification alive (albeit by the slimmest of margins).
Italy took the lead with a worldie from veteran forward Cristiana Girelli in the 70th minute. She curled home a long-range effort into the top corner, giving the Azzurre control. Up to that point, Italy had dictated play, enjoying the lion’s share of possession and testing Portugal’s defence, notably forcing goalkeeper Patrícia Morais into several smart saves.
Portugal’s response came in the final moments. After a Diana Silva header thundered off the bar and a VAR review ruled out an earlier goal, substitute Diana Gomes broke through in the 89th minute. She tapped home from close range following a recycled corner, rescuing a lifeline point for the hosts. Late drama saw Ana Borges receive a second yellow and red in stoppage time — adding spice to the final whistle.
The draw leaves Italy with four points, within sight of qualification, while Portugal sit on one point and are still (officially) in the running to progress.
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Whats next?
Portugal face Belgium in Sion on Friday — needing a big win to stay in the Euros. Expect Neto to inject fresh legs and perhaps tweak the midfield to sharpen attack. Italy, meanwhile, take on Spain, searching for at least a point to guarantee progress and possibly top the group.
Remaining Group B fixtures
Friday 11th Jul
20:00: Italy vs Spain – Stadion Wankdorf, Bern, BBC iPlayer
20:00: Portugal vs Belgium – Stade de Tourbillon, Sion, BBC iPlayer
Live standings
