Italy vs Belgium: Caruso’s Curler Seals Azzurre’s Perfect Start

Italy vs Belgium burst into life in Lucerne as the Azzurre edged the Red Flames 1-0 thanks to a moment of individual brilliance from Arianna Caruso. The midfielder’s sumptuous 41st-minute strike not only decided the opening Group B clash of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 but also offered an early statement of intent from Milena Bertolini’s developing side.

Italy vs Belgium – How the Match Was Won

The initial exchanges followed a familiar script. Italy controlled possession, with Manuela Giugliano dictating rhythm from deep, while Belgium sat compact, ready to spring on the counter through the tireless Tessa Wullaert. For 40 minutes the plan held: Laura De Loose screened the visiting defence superbly, and young keeper Lisa Lichtfus saved well from Cristiana Girelli’s near-post header.

Then came the breakthrough. Receiving the ball 25 metres out, Caruso shifted onto her right foot and bent an unstoppable shot beyond Lichtfus into the top corner. The stadium erupted; Belgium’s resistance cracked. It was a goal worthy of deciding any Italy vs Belgium contest and instantly recalled the Juventus midfielder’s penchant for long-range heroics in Serie A.

Tactical Tweaks and Second-Half Narrative

Bertolini’s switch to a 4-2-3-1 gave Caruso licence to roam between the lines, creating overloads on Belgium’s left. When possession was lost, Giada Greggi tucked in alongside Giugliano to deny Wullaert space. Domenico Tedesco, deputising for ill coach Ives Serneels, responded by introducing Jassina Blom and Marie Minnaert after the break, morphing Belgium into a more adventurous 4-3-3.

The reshuffle produced fleeting openings. An Italy vs Belgium duel in the 58th minute saw Wullaert spin past Elena Linari only to drag her shot wide. Moments later, goalkeeper Laura Giuliani was alert to smother Delphine Cascarino-style winger Feli Delacauw’s low cross. Yet the Red Flames could not maintain momentum. Italy’s central block, marshalled by the imperious Cecilia Salvai, absorbed pressure and set counters rolling through the pace of Sofia Cantore.

Key Statistics

• Shots: Italy 12, Belgium 7
• On target: Italy 5, Belgium 2
• Possession: Italy 62%, Belgium 38%
• Pass accuracy: Italy 86%, Belgium 78%
• Expected goals (xG): Italy 1.14, Belgium 0.59

Those numbers underline how the Italy vs Belgium matchup evolved: efficiency in the final third separated the two well-drilled outfits.

Arianna Caruso – Player of the Match

Caruso’s influence went far beyond the decisive strike. She completed 37 of 41 passes, registered three ball recoveries, and drew four fouls that slowed Belgium’s attempts to build rhythm. Her chemistry with veteran striker Girelli—who continually dropped deep to open shooting lanes—was a recurring feature, and the 24-year-old’s energy set the pressing tone.

What the Result Means for Group B

With Portugal and Spain meeting later this week, Italy’s triumph places them top of Group B on three points. Another Italy vs Belgium meeting will not happen unless both sides advance, but the Red Flames already face a must-win fixture against Spain if they are to avoid an early exit. For Italy, one more victory could secure a quarter-final berth and erase the memories of their disappointing Euro 2022 campaign.

Manager Reactions

Milena Bertolini (Italy): “We prepared meticulously for Italy vs Belgium because we respect their organisation. Arianna’s quality shone through, yet I’m equally proud of our defensive discipline.”

Domenico Tedesco (Belgium assistant): “The difference was a world-class goal. We matched them in many areas but must be more clinical. Italy vs Belgium always hinges on fine margins.”

Timeline of Major Incidents

1. 12’ – Lichtfus beats away Giugliano’s dipping free-kick.
2. 32’ – Wullaert curls over after intercepting a loose pass.
3. 41’ – GOAL! Caruso bends a stunning effort into the top corner. Italy 1-0 Belgium.
4. 53’ – Salvai blocks De Loose’s drive on the edge of the area.
5. 79’ – Lichtfus denies Cantore in a one-on-one to keep Belgium alive.
6. 90+3’ – Giuliani claims a high cross under pressure, sealing the win.

Looking Ahead

Next up, the Azzurre tackle Portugal, while Belgium must regroup for a daunting showdown against pre-tournament favourites Spain. Another high-stakes Italy vs Belgium encounter could still materialise in the knockout rounds, but for now the narrative centres on contrasting momentum swings within Group B.

Opinion

Caruso’s rocket will dominate highlight reels, yet the larger talking point is Italy’s newfound balance. Previously accused of lacking incision, they married patience with penetration in the latest Italy vs Belgium chapter. Belgium, buoyed by promising young talent, are clearly evolving, but the absence of a ruthless finisher remains their Achilles heel. If Wullaert finds her scoring boots, Group B could still witness twists. For neutrals, the opening night served up a tantalising reminder that Women’s Euro 2025 may deliver its most competitive edition to date.