Iberian clash and Italian resilience: What to expect from Group B at the Euros

With the first two matches of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 now complete, the tournament is well and truly underway. Over the next month, 29 matches will be played in what promises to be a thrilling showcase of Europe’s finest talent. After an exciting Group A opening, it’s now time for Group B to take centre stage.

Featuring Italy, Belgium, Spain and Portugal, this group offers a fascinating mix of styles and stories. Reigning world champions Spain face their Iberian neighbours Portugal, while Italy take on a Belgium side determined to continue their recent progress.

History at the Euros

Spain vs Portugal

Despite their rise as a global force in recent years, Spain have yet to lift the UEFA Women’s EURO trophy. After first qualifying in 1997, they missed the next three editions and have often seen their campaigns end at the quarter-final stage.

Portugal, a proud footballing nation on the men’s side, are still building their legacy in the women’s game. They made their Euros debut in 2017 but are yet to reach the knockout stages. In the 2022 edition, they failed to win a single group match.

Belgium vs Italy

Belgium first appeared at the tournament in 2017 and surprised many by reaching the quarter-finals in 2022. Despite a country divided by language (French and Dutch), football has unified them on the pitch and inspired hope for further progress.

Italy, on the other hand, are seasoned competitors. With 13 appearances, the Azzurre have finished runners-up twice and third once, but are still searching for their first European title. Their mix of tradition and new talent makes them a team to watch.

Group overview & how matches might unfold

🇪🇸 vs 🇵🇹

Spain and Portugal last met in April during the UEFA Women’s Nations League, where Spain secured a dominant 7-0 victory. The gap between them is clear in the world rankings too, Spain sit 2nd, while Portugal are 22nd. Expect a confident display from La Roja, with a predicted scoreline of around 3-1 or 4-1 in Spain’s favour.

🇮🇹 vs 🇧🇪

Meetings between Italy and Belgium have been relatively rare, but Italy tend to come out on top. In their most recent clash in 2023, Italy edged out the Belgians. Currently, Italy are ranked 13th and Belgium 20th, suggesting a tight but slightly tilted encounter. A close match is expected, perhaps finishing 1-0 or 2-0 either way, as both sides fight for crucial points.

Players to watch

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí remains Spain’s creative engine. Recently recovering from viral meningitis, she may start cautiously, but her quality will be vital to Spain’s success.

Portugal will rely on forward Diana Silva, who led the team in goals during qualifying. If she can find space, she has the ability to disrupt even the most organised defences.

Italy’s Arianna Caruso will be key in midfield, controlling possession and linking play to give the Azzurre momentum and attacking options.

Veteran Belgian defender Janice Cayman, now 36, offers vital experience and leadership, anchoring the back line and guiding Belgium’s younger players on the big stage.

Group B promises a rich blend of tactical approaches and individual brilliance. From Portugal’s attacking flair and Spain’s midfield mastery, to Italy’s composure and Belgium’s disciplined defending, day two of the Women’s Euros is set to deliver a compelling showcase of European football at its finest. 

Watch the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 live on DAZN in Germany.