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(0) Analysis of the match between Portugal Women and Italy Women
Portugal Women Seek Escape from Crisis, Italy Women Eye Quarterfinals
Portugal faces immense pressure as they strive for their first-ever direct qualification to the Women's EURO knockout stages, following consecutive group stage exits in 2017 and 2022. However, their ambitions took a severe hit with a devastating 0-5 defeat to Spain in their opening match.
This crushing loss not only exposed the weaknesses of coach Francisco Neto's squad but also extended their alarming run of form: losing five of their last six matches (with one draw) and, notably, conceding at least three goals in those defeats. More concerning is that Portugal has failed to score in their last four matches, indicating they need a significant improvement in their attacking prowess if they hope to keep their qualification hopes alive against formidable opponents like Italy and Belgium.
On the other side of the pitch, Italy is also determined to avoid another early group stage exit, a fate they've faced in their last two European championships. La Azzurre's hopes of reaching the quarterfinals for the first time since 2013 were bolstered by a minimal but crucial victory against Belgium in their opening fixture.
Following two consecutive international wins, Italy is aiming for their first three-match winning streak since February 2022. If coach Milena Bertolini's side can secure all three points against Portugal, they will officially claim a quarterfinal spot with a game to spare, provided Spain doesn't lose to Belgium in their concurrent match.
