By 
GENEVA – After enduring a painful 5-0 defeat to reigning world champions Spain in their Women’s Euro 2025 Group B opener, Portugal’s national team could have been forgiven for entering their next clash with Italy feeling demoralized. Instead, they responded with a battling 1-1 draw, and at the heart of their spirited comeback was the relentless support from their fans — something defender Ana Seica was quick to acknowledge.
Speaking after the match at Stade de Genève, the 25-year-old centre back, who remained an unused substitute, credited the passionate Portuguese supporters for providing the energy and belief the team needed to push until the final whistle.
“Our fans are amazing,” Seica told Reuters. “Even in the warm-up, they’re already there. They’re already making noise… it’s what keeps us going until the 90th minute.”
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From Humiliation to Heart
The contrast between Portugal’s two performances within the span of just four days was stark. Against Spain, the Navegadoras were overwhelmed by the champions’ pace, precision, and pressing. It was a sobering night in Bern that left fans and analysts alike questioning whether Portugal could recover psychologically in time to compete with Italy — a side known for its tactical discipline and attacking sharpness.
But recovery they did — and with remarkable resilience. The atmosphere in Geneva hinted early that this was a different Portugal. Long before kick-off, drums echoed across the city as thousands of Portuguese fans, clad in red and green, made their presence felt. That energy carried into the stadium, growing in volume with every tackle, interception, and breakaway.
“We knew we had to show a different version of ourselves,” Seica said. “In this game, we came in a lot harder. We won more duels, something we knew we had to improve, and it was shown on the pitch that we fought for it.”
The Match Unfolds
The game itself was a tense, physical affair. Italy dominated early possession, probing Portugal’s defence with quick passing sequences and wing play. However, Portuguese goalkeeper Patricia Morais rose to the occasion with several crucial saves, none more vital than her sharp stop just before half-time that kept the score level.
Morais’s reaction — a roar toward the fans and a defiant fist-pump — epitomized Portugal’s mindset: they were not going to back down.
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Italy eventually broke through in the 70th minute, when veteran striker Cristiana Girelli curled in a stunning effort from the edge of the box, leaving Morais with no chance. The goal could have deflated Portugal, who by then had put in a tireless defensive shift. Instead, they responded with renewed purpose.
Diana Silva appeared to have found the equaliser with a smart header just ten minutes later, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. It was a gut-punch, but the team and their supporters continued to believe.
And in the 89th minute, belief turned to ecstasy. Off a corner kick, Diana Gomes rose highest in the box to nod home a dramatic equaliser that sent the Portuguese fans into raptures.
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“We kept pushing, we kept our heart,” said Seica. “That’s what we are known for… and we got that goal.”
The Role of the Fans
Seica’s tribute to the Portuguese supporters was more than just lip service. Throughout the evening, their chanting, singing, and rhythmic drumming provided the soundtrack to one of Portugal’s most spirited performances in recent tournament memory.
From Lisbon to Lausanne, the Portuguese diaspora turned out in force to support their national team. The sight of waving flags and tearful fans embracing after the late equaliser highlighted how much this match meant — not just to the players, but to the entire Portuguese footballing community.
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“Even when things looked difficult, they kept singing,” Seica said. “It made a difference. It always does.”
Looking Ahead: A Final Group Battle
With the draw, Portugal moved to one point in Group B — still alive, but with everything to play for in their final match against Belgium, who have already been eliminated after consecutive defeats.
The match in Sion on Friday will be a must-win for Portugal. A victory could see them through to the knockout stages, depending on the outcome of Spain vs Italy. While the scenarios are complex, the goal is simple for Francisco Neto’s side: beat Belgium, and keep the dream alive.
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Portugal will be bolstered by their comeback against Italy — not only for the point gained, but for the rediscovered belief and unity within the squad. And crucially, they know their fans will once again be behind them in full voice.
“The drums will be loud again on Friday,” Seica said with a smile. “And we’ll be ready.”
Grit and Growth: Portugal’s Evolution
Beyond the emotional highs, the draw against Italy also marked a tactical and psychological evolution for this Portugal side. After the Spain defeat, head coach Francisco Neto called for composure, improved positional play, and more aggressive duels in midfield. Against Italy, the players delivered.
While much of the credit went to the backline and Morais, the midfield trio of Andreia Norton, Tatiana Pinto, and Dolores Silva played a key role in breaking up Italian transitions and recycling possession.
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The defensive compactness, coupled with precise counters, showcased a team that had learned quickly from its mistakes. It’s the type of growth every coach hopes to see during a tournament — the ability to rebound, to learn under pressure, and to fight with purpose.
Seica’s Emerging Voice
Although she didn’t step onto the pitch, Ana Seica’s leadership and visibility off it speak volumes. Still early in her international career, the 25-year-old has grown into a trusted voice in the locker room — someone who embodies the values of persistence, teamwork, and national pride.
Seica’s remarks after the Italy match weren’t just reflective; they were rallying. She understands what’s at stake and how this young Portuguese squad — many of whom are competing in their first major international tournament — must feed off moments like these to build something lasting.
“It’s about identity,” she said. “We’re not the biggest team, or the most experienced, but we have heart. We fight, and we do it together.”
Final Thoughts
As Portugal prepare for their final group match against Belgium, the team carries with it more than just tactical notes and physical fatigue — they carry momentum, belief, and the energy of their people. For a squad that looked broken just four days ago, that’s an incredible turnaround.
Whether or not they reach the knockout rounds, the Navegadoras have already given fans a night to remember in Geneva. And with drums, chants, and courage, they’re ready to write the next chapter in Sion.
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