Portugal were eliminated from the UEFA Women’s European Championship after losing 2-1 to Belgium, marking their eighth straight match without a win. Coach Francisco Neto’s team needed a miracle to reach the quarter-finals, but their hopes took a big hit when Belgium scored just three minutes into the game.
Belgian captain Tessa Wullaert gave her team an early lead with a beautiful first-time shot from a Jill Janssens cross, putting Portugal under immediate pressure.
Belgium almost doubled their lead soon after when Justine Vanhaevermaet narrowly missed connecting with another smart pass from Wullaert, which easily cut through Portugal’s defense.
Portugal had chances to equalize. Diana Gomes missed a good opportunity after a surprise free-kick from Francisca Nazareth, and Diana Silva came close with a sharp shot near the post that Belgian goalkeeper Lisa Lichtfus saved.
The match took a serious turn when Jassina Blom of Belgium was injured after a tough tackle by Gomes and had to be taken off on a stretcher. Portugal looked better towards the end of the first half, but Ana Capeta’s poor attempt at a lob summed up their frustration on the pitch.
Both teams struggled with their defending after the break, creating a chaotic start to the second half. Mariam Toloba missed a clear chance from inside the box, while on the other side, goalkeeper Lichtfus stopped Capeta’s shot.
The match remained wide open, with plenty of space and attacking chances. Toloba had another opportunity but shot over the bar from close range. She later scored what looked like a clean goal, but VAR ruled it out because Marie Detruyer had fouled Andreia Jacinto earlier in the move.
Toloba’s frustrating night continued when her powerful header from Wullaert’s cross hit the crossbar. Belgium missed several more chances to increase their lead.
Portugal eventually found an equaliser when Telma Encarnacao scored with a strong left-footed shot, finishing off a great through ball from Nazareth.
Later, Gunnarsdottir’s team thought they had taken the lead with a strange goal. The ball bounced off Amber Tysiak and ended up in the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Finally, in a thrilling ending, Janice Cayman smashed in a loose ball from inside the penalty area, giving Belgium a late winning goal and ending the match on a dramatic note, even though both teams failed to progress in the tournament.
FAQ
What happened in the Belgium vs Portugal match?
Belgium won a thrilling match against Portugal in EURO 2025, but despite the victory, both teams were eliminated from the tournament.
Why did both Belgium and Portugal exit even though Belgium won?
Both teams were knocked out due to their overall performance in the group stage — likely because of goal difference or points, despite Belgium’s win.
What was the final score of the match?
The exact score isn’t mentioned in the title, but it was a close and exciting game with Belgium narrowly defeating Portugal.
Which teams advanced from their group instead?
Other teams in the same group had better results, leading to Belgium and Portugal being eliminated. Exact names would depend on final standings.
Did star players like Ronaldo or De Bruyne play?
Details about individual performances aren’t given in the title, but such players usually feature in major clashes unless injured or rested.
