The Azzurre celebrated against Denmark. © APA/afp / BO AMSTRUP

Schatzer with Italy: Dream goals on the assembly line

On Tuesday evening, the Azzurre started the second half of the Nations League – and picked up three important points with a dream performance led by Eva Schatzer.

08 April 2025

From: do

On Tuesday, the Azzurre, with Eva Schatzer from Varna once again in the squad, were fighting for crucial points in their battle for qualification for the semifinals. At the MCH Arena in Herning, Italy faced Denmark, against whom they had lost the first leg 1-3. This time, however, Andrea Soncin's players showed a much improved performance, winning comfortably 3-0. Schatzer, like on Friday against Sweden, was substituted on in the 75th minute.

While the game was rather leisurely in the first half, the Italians noticeably stepped up a gear after the break. Nevertheless, they repeatedly found themselves frustrated by the well-organized Danish defense, which was waiting for counterattacks.

It finally took a flash of inspiration, which FC Bayern Munich midfielder Arianna Caruso delivered: Together with Manuela Giugliano, who played a spectacular backheel pass, the 25-year-old combined with the Scandinavian defense with a one-two, outwitted the last defender with a feint, and fired the ball into the net to make it 1-0 (59').

Arianna Caruso broke the deadlock with her 1-0 goal. © APA/afp / BO AMSTRUP

But that wasn't the end of it. Once again, Italy skillfully combined to break through the opposing defense, but the ball bounced off the leg of a Danish player. Lucia Di Guglielmo reacted quickest and curled the ball beautifully into the top right corner to make it 2-0 (79'). The 3-0 goal was also a goal for the highlight reel: Cristiana Girelli spectacularly fired a cross into the net with the outside of her foot, sailing through the air (86').

Schatzer was on the pitch for two of the three goals. The Juventus player provided her team with the necessary support and stability in defensive midfield, allowing the Azzurre to play effectively going forward. In her second Nations League appearance, the 20-year-old clearly recommended herself for further playing time.

Denmark – Italy 0:3

Goals: 0:1 Caruso (59th), 0:2 Di Giuglielmo (79th), 0:3 Girelli (86th)