Opening Round Highlights
The Women’s Euro Beach Soccer League regular phase opened its doors in the sun‑kissed streets of Chișinău, Moldova, drawing a vibrant crowd eager to see the continent’s top teams battle for early bragging rights.
Poland’s campaign got off to a dramatic start as they faced the Netherlands in a seesaw encounter. Early strikes from Terka and Matusiak put the Polish side ahead, but the Dutch answered with goals from Syl and Nina to level the score at 2‑2. Matusiak struck again before the first break, giving Poland a 3‑2 lead, only for Sharona to equalise midway through the second period. Dall’Ara restored the Polish advantage to 4‑3, and after a series of tense exchanges Nancy levelled at 4‑4. In the closing stages Kamińska and Świt found the net, sealing a 6‑5 victory that will be remembered for its relentless pace.
Italy, meanwhile, approached their opening match against Portugal with a calm confidence that paid off quickly. Vecchione broke the deadlock in the second period, and Baldini doubled the lead shortly thereafter. Portugal managed to pull one back through Flores before the break, but Ferreira restored parity in the final period. Adami’s strike gave Italy a 3‑2 edge, and Vecchione’s second goal sealed a 4‑2 win that highlighted the Azzurre’s clinical efficiency.
The tournament’s schedule now looks ahead to two eagerly anticipated fixtures on 30 July 2026: Poland will take on Belgium, while Portugal will meet the Netherlands. Both matches promise to continue the high‑octane style of play that has already captivated fans in Chișinău.