Portugal secures last-minute equaliser against Italy to sustain faint hopes of qualification

Portugal managed to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages of the UEFA Women’s European Championship alive with a late equaliser from Diana Gomes, securing a 1-1 draw against Italy. This result marked an end to their seven-match losing streak against the Azzurre.

After their narrow 1-0 win over Belgium in the opening match of the group, Italy appeared confident at the onset, with Cristiana Girelli forcing a remarkable save from Patrícia Morais with a long-range attempt.

As the first half unfolded, Le Azzurre maintained their dominance and came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock when Cecilia Salvai’s header from Lisa Boattin’s precise cross struck the crossbar.

Portugal, without a win in their previous six matches (D1, L5), attempted to assert themselves before half-time with a significant amount of possession in midfield; however, Italy remained the more potent threat in the attacking third.

Emma Severini had a goal denied for offside, while Morais was resolute in Portugal’s goal, saving a dangerous low shot by Girelli.

The second half commenced similarly, with Italy’s Arianna Caruso sending a powerful shot just over the crossbar.

Refusing to be disheartened by that near miss, the Azzurre’s sustained pressure finally bore fruit in the 70th minute when Girelli created space on the edge of the box and curled a stunning shot into the top corner for her first tournament goal.

In response, Francisco Neto’s side sought an immediate equaliser and thought they had found it when Diana Silva slotted in a rebound, only for VAR to rule it out for offside.

However, Portugal persisted and found their equaliser in the 89th minute when Gomes instinctively directed Dolores Silva’s cut-back into the net.

This late goal proved crucial as it kept Portugal’s faint hopes of reaching the quarter-finals intact as they head into the final matchday.

For a recap of the match, click here.