Italy won their first match in the Women's European Championship since 2017 as Arianna Caruso struck just before the break to give them a 1-0 victory over Belgium in their Group B opener on Thursday. "It was what we wanted, the first match is always complicated," coach Andrea Soncin told RAI after Italy made their first winning start in the tournament since 2009. "We can definitely improve and we must if we want to continue to grow, but I am happy with the attitude we showed." Lichtfus's quick reflexes saved Cristiana Girelli's close range back-flick in the 64th minute to keep Belgium in the game, but the 2022 quarter-finalists were unable to find an equaliser as Italy made their first winning start in the tournament since 2009. Italy will continue their campaign against Portugal on Monday, while Belgium play Nations League winners Spain.