Italy vs Portugal ends in late drama with goal and red card as Portugal kept their UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 hopes alive with a gritty 1-1 draw against Italy, ensuring Group B remains wide open heading into the final round of matches.
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A Tight Group B Battle
Portugal entered this match knowing they needed at least a point to stay in contention for the quarter-finals, while Italy aimed to strengthen their position in the group. The first half saw both teams pushing but unable to find the breakthrough, leaving the game finely balanced at the break.
Girelli’s Stunning Goal Lights Up the Match
In the 70th minute, Italy’s captain Cristiana Girelli stepped up and delivered a moment of pure quality. She picked out the top right corner from just outside the box with a beautiful strike that left the Portugal goalkeeper with no chance, celebrating emotionally as Italy took a crucial lead.
Portugal’s Disallowed Goal Adds to the Drama
Portugal responded with urgency, pressing hard for an equaliser. They thought they had found it in the 80th minute when Diana Silva converted from close range after her initial header hit the post, but VAR ruled the goal out due to an offside position, adding further tension to the closing stages.
Late Equaliser Keeps Portugal’s Hopes Alive
Refusing to give up, Portugal finally found the equaliser they desperately needed in the 89th minute. Diana Gomes showed composure under pressure, lifting a brilliant chip over the Italian keeper to level the score and spark celebrations on the Portugal bench as they kept their EURO dreams alive.
Red Card Drama But Portugal Hold On
The drama wasn’t over as Portugal’s Ana Borges received a late red card, leaving her team to finish the game with ten players. Despite the setback, Portugal managed to hold on for a 1-1 draw, ensuring they remain in the fight for a place in the quarter-finals.
What’s Next for Portugal and Italy
Portugal now need to beat Belgium in their final group match and will hope that Italy lose to Spain, who have already qualified for the quarter-finals. The group remains wide open, and Portugal’s resilience has given them a fighting chance heading into the final matchday.
