Belgium vs Italy – UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Group B Preview
Kick-off time, where to watch, predicted lineups and key details ahead of the Group B opener
Sion, July 3, 2025 – Belgium and Italy will meet this Thursday in a crucial Group B opener at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. The match takes place at the Stade de Tourbillon in Sion and is expected to be a tightly contested encounter between two sides aiming to progress from a challenging group that also includes Spain and the Czech Republic.
Kick-off Time and Broadcast Information
- Date: Thursday, July 3, 2025
- Kick-off: 18:00 CET (17:00 BST / 12:00 ET)
- Venue: Stade de Tourbillon, Sion, Switzerland
- Where to watch:
- Belgium: VRT Canvas, RTBF
- Italy: RAI 2, RaiPlay
- International: UEFA.tv (selected territories), FS1 (USA), BBC/ITV (UK)
Match Overview
This match marks the opening fixture for both teams in Group B. Belgium enter the tournament with renewed ambition under new head coach Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir, while Italy, coached by Andrea Soncin, are hoping to improve on their recent underwhelming performances at major tournaments.
In their most recent EURO meeting, Belgium defeated Italy 1–0 at UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. That result helped the Red Flames reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
Team News and Tactical Insights
Belgium boast a well-balanced squad led by veteran striker Tessa Wullaert, who brings leadership and goalscoring pedigree. Midfielder Marie Detruyer is expected to be a key link between midfield and attack, while Sari Kees and Davina Philtjens provide stability at the back.
Coach Gunnarsdóttir is expected to opt for a 4-4-2 formation, emphasising compactness in defence and quick transitions.
Italy, on the other hand, will likely rely on the experience of forward Barbara Bonansea and the midfield creativity of Manuela Giugliano. Young striker Chiara Beccari could be an exciting option in attack, supported by seasoned players like Cristiana Girelli and Valentina Giacinti.
Andrea Soncin has instilled greater tactical discipline in the team and prefers a structured build-up with emphasis on possession.
Predicted Lineups
- Belgium (4–4–2):
Lichtfus – Deloose, Tysiak, Kees, Philtjens – Detruyer, Vanhaevermaet, De Caigny, Janssens – Wullaert, Eurlings - Italy (4–3–3):
Giuliani – Lenzini, Linari, Salvai, Boattin – Giugliano, Caruso, Severini – Bonansea, Giacinti, Beccari
Players to Watch
- Tessa Wullaert (Belgium) – Belgium’s all-time top scorer (90+ goals), a key attacking threat with tournament experience.
- Manuela Giugliano (Italy) – The AS Roma midfielder is Italy’s heartbeat in midfield, known for her passing range and game intelligence.
- Chiara Beccari (Italy) – A rising star, the 20-year-old forward is expected to play a prominent role in this EURO.
- Marie Detruyer (Belgium) – Creative and agile, she’s one of Belgium’s most promising midfielders.
What the Coaches Said
Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir (Belgium):
“Italy are a tough team with technical quality, but we believe in our game plan and our unity.”
Andrea Soncin (Italy):
“The team is motivated. This first match will be key to building momentum in the group.”
Head-to-Head Record
- Last 5 meetings:
- Belgium wins: 2
- Italy wins: 2
- Draws: 1
- Most recent: Belgium 1–0 Italy (EURO 2022 group stage)
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