The UEFA Women’s European Championship served up another pulsating clash as Portugal snatched a late 1-1 draw against Italy, ensuring their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage remain alive. Kenyan football fans who stayed up for the action were treated to a spectacle that shows just how far women’s football has come—and why it’s winning hearts worldwide.
⚽ Portugal vs. Italy: A Game of Narrow Margins
Italy entered the match brimming with confidence after a narrow 1-0 win over Belgium. Right from kick-off, they looked sharp, with Cristiana Girelli firing warning shots that Portuguese goalkeeper Patrícia Morais did well to save. The Azzurre almost opened the scoring when Cecilia Salvai’s towering header crashed off the bar following Lisa Boattin’s precise cross.
Portugal, winless in six prior matches, struggled initially but began to grow into the contest before half-time. Despite spells of good possession, they lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Girelli’s Wonder Strike Breaks the Deadlock
The second half saw Italy maintain their attacking momentum. Arianna Caruso went close, but it was Girelli who finally broke Portuguese hearts in the 70th minute. A clever shift of her feet created space on the edge of the box, and she unleashed a curling shot into the top corner—an absolute screamer that left fans and commentators alike in awe.
Diana Gomes Saves the Day for Portugal
But Francisco Neto’s Portugal refused to lie down. Diana Silva thought she’d equalised almost immediately, only for VAR to rule her effort out for a marginal offside—a moment that left Portuguese fans (and probably some Kenyan punters!) groaning in frustration.
Yet Portugal’s persistence paid off in the 89th minute. Dolores Silva fired a low cut-back into the danger zone, and Diana Gomes reacted brilliantly to steer the ball into the net. That dramatic late goal not only salvaged a point but also ended Portugal’s run of seven consecutive defeats against Italy.
What It Means for the Group
Heading into matchday three, Portugal’s chances of reaching the quarter-finals remain slim but very much alive. They’ll need a win and possibly other results to go their way. For Italian coach Andrea Soncin, it’s a warning that no game can be taken lightly in this fiercely competitive tournament.
Bet on the Women’s Euros with Bangbet Kenya!
Looking to make the matches even more exciting? Bangbet is your perfect betting partner. With competitive odds, fast payouts, and a user-friendly platform tailored for Kenyan punters, Bangbet makes it easy to bet on every thrilling moment of the Women’s Euros. Whether you’re backing Portugal to complete a miracle run or Italy to bounce back strong, place your bets securely and responsibly at Bangbet. Play safe—and win big!
Stay tuned for more updates, match reports, and betting insights from the Women’s EUROs, right here on Bangbet News!
