Arianna Caruso's brilliant strike propelled Italy to a 1-0 victory over Belgium in their opening match of the Euro 2025. The win gives Italy a crucial advantage in Group B, which also includes World Cup winner Spain and Portugal. The match was a tightly contested affair, with both sides creating chances, but Caruso's goal on the stroke of halftime proved to be the difference.

The first half was evenly balanced, with both teams displaying good movement but struggling to find the final touch. Belgium's captain, Tessa Wullaert, posed the greatest threat, coming close to scoring five minutes before the break. However, her initial shot was blocked, and her subsequent attempt went just wide of the left post.

Italy capitalized on this let-off just four minutes later. Lucia Di Guglielmo found Caruso unmarked on the edge of the area, and the Bayern Munich midfielder skillfully cut inside and curled a shot into the top corner. The goal, which came in the 44th minute, was a moment of brilliance that shifted the momentum in Italy's favor.

In the 64th minute, Cristiana Girelli almost doubled Italy's lead with a stunning back-heeled attempt from close range. However, Belgium's goalkeeper, Lisa Lichtfus, produced an impressive reflex save to deny her. Italy continued to press for a second goal, with Michela Cambiaghi's curling effort narrowly missing the target. Lichtfus was called into action again in the dying minutes, tipping Cambiaghi's shot around the post.

Despite Italy's efforts to extend their lead, Belgium struggled to mount a significant attacking threat. Italy's defense remained resolute, ensuring that Caruso's goal was enough to secure the victory.

Italy's coach, Andrea Soncin, expressed her satisfaction with the result. She noted that the team grew into the game, managing their emotions well in the opening match. She added, "As the match went on we loosened up and our quality showed through".

The victory was particularly significant for Italy, who lost to Belgium in the group stage of Euro 2022 and had suffered three consecutive defeats against the Red Flames. This win not only avenges those losses but also boosts Italy's chances of progressing to the quarterfinals. Italy, a two-time runner-up at the Euros, has not reached the knockout stage since 2013, making this win a crucial step towards ending that drought.

The match began with a minute's silence in memory of Portugal international Diogo Jota and his brother, who tragically died in a car accident in Spain. The tribute was impeccably observed at the Stade de Tourbillon in Sion.

Arianna Caruso was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance. According to UEFA's Technical Observer Group, Caruso dominated the midfield with and without the ball, in addition to scoring the winning goal. They highlighted her ball recoveries and tackles as key contributions to Italy's success.