Italy vs Argentina: A huge goal from Cristiana Girelli gave Le Azzurre the three points in a hard-fought contest with Argentina

A contest to remember for the fans at Eden Park. Italy scored a late winner against Argentina to earn three valuable points in their first match of Group G. Italy were the favourites before the match but Argentina proved that on a stage like this, everyone gives their best. Their defence was rock solid and despite Italy's constant attacks, they stood still. Boattin's hanging cross didn't look dangerous but the 33-year-old substitute Cristiana Girelli made a terrific header out of it and scored the goal for Italy. Argentina stood strong for 87 minutes but the Italian talisman showed the game is still to be played. Read the match report of Italy vs Argentina Group G game of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 and share your thoughts in the comments.

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FIFA Women's World Cup 2023: Italy vs Argentina - Match Report

Italy vs Argentina | Lineups:

Italy starting XI: Durante; Di Guglielmo, Linari, Boattin, Salvai; Giugliano, Bonansea, Beccari, Dragoni, Caruso; Giacinti. Argentina starting XI: Correa; Stabile, Cometti, Braun, Mayorga; Nunez, Falfan, Bonsegundo, Benitez, Banini; Larroquette

Argentina starting XI: Correa; Stabile, Cometti, Braun, Mayorga; Nunez, Falfan, Bonsegundo, Benitez, Banini; Larroquette.

First Half:

An intense and exciting first half started with Argentina's move as they almost found the goal in the 2nd minute of the game. But then, Italy's midfield showed class, and Winger Boattin's beautiful cross was buried in the net by Caruso in the 16th minute but the VAR confirmed, she was offside. Giacinti also scored in the 41st minute for Le Azzure but it was also confirmed as offside. Argentina stood tall in the first half as they kept the scoreline 0-0 with some luck and quality defending.

Second Half:

The final forty-five minutes saw the urgency of breaking the deadlock from the Italian players. The first 20 minutes of the second half was nothing but a wrestling match. The players saw some cards and received warnings from the referee but the game was going toward an interesting phase. The oldest member of Italy, Cristiana Girelli replaced the youngest Dragoni in the 83rd minute.

Boattin's hanging cross didn't look dangerous but the 33-year-old substitute Girelli made a terrific header out of it and scored the goal for Italy. Argentina stood strong for 87 minutes but the Italian talisman showed the game is still to be played. Just four minutes into the pitch and Girelli scored for her side. Bonsegundo took a brilliant shot from the free-kick spot in the dying minutes of the game but the Italian stopper stopped it from going in with a beautiful save. Italy survived and also earned valuable three points from Italy vs Argentina Group G clash. It is very important to win the campaign opener and Italy now have the advantage.