Belgium knock Italy out of Women's Euro to advance at first major tournament

Belgium knocked Italy out of the 2022 Women's Euro and reached the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time thanks to a 1-0 win over the Azzurri on Monday.

Tine De Caigny struck the decisive goal four minutes after half-time, collecting the ball on the edge of the box and smartly moving on to her left foot before drilling into the bottom corner.

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Belgium, who will face Sweden in the last eight on Friday, take second place in Group D behind France, who drew 1-1 with Iceland.

The Italians finish the group in bottom position with a solitary point after a disappointing tournament for Milena Bertolini's side.

De Caigny's goal brought to life what had been a lacklustre game in hot conditions and Italy piled on the pressure as the game wore on in search of a way to keep their tournament alive.

Italy's Cristiana Girelli hit the bar shortly after the goal, but despite creating pressure and making a series of attacking substitutions they could not find a way through.

Tessa Wullaert went close to wrapping things up for Belgium in the final stages with a shot against the woodwork. A solitary goal was enough for Belgium, who are featuring in only their second European Championship.