Thu Jul 03 17:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:

**Italy Edges Out Belgium in Women’s Euro Opener**

**MANCHESTER -** Italy secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Belgium in their Group B opener at the Women’s European Championship on Thursday, marking their first win in the tournament since 2017. A stunning first-half strike from Arianna Caruso proved to be the difference.

The match, preceded by a minute’s silence to honor the late Portuguese striker Diogo Jota, saw a determined Italian side take the initiative early. Caruso, a midfielder for Bayern Munich, consistently threatened the Belgian defense. Her breakthrough came just before halftime when Lucia Di Guglielmo delivered a precise pass from the right, finding Caruso unmarked on the edge of the box. Caruso then coolly curled a right-footed shot past keeper Lisa Lichtfus to score at the near post.

While Belgium enjoyed more possession and registered more attempts on goal in the first half, their efforts were ultimately fruitless. Mariam Toloba shot wide, and Tessa Wullaert missed a close-range opportunity, failing to capitalize on their chances.

After the break, Lichtfus denied Italy a second with a sharp save against Cristiana Girelli, keeping Belgium in contention. However, the Belgian attack was unable to find an equalizer, leaving Italy to celebrate their first winning start to the tournament since 2009.

Italy will face Portugal in their next match on Monday, while Belgium will face a tough test against Nations League champions Spain.

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