Italy’s Women’s National Team Shows Promise in March 2026 Friendlies
As the road to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup begins to take shape, Italy’s women’s national team has emerged as a team to watch following a series of impressive performances in their March 2026 international friendlies. Under the guidance of head coach Milena Bertolini, the Azzurre have displayed a renewed sense of purpose, offering hope to fans that they can return to prominence on the global stage.
Strong Results Against Quality Opposition
Italy kicked off their March window with a 2-0 victory over Switzerland on March 23, 2026, at Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence. Goals from Juventus forward Cristiana Girelli and Roma midfielder Manuela Giugliano showcased the team’s attacking intent and clinical finishing. Girelli, in particular, continues to be a talisman for Italy, her experience proving invaluable as younger players step into larger roles.
Three days later, on March 26, Italy faced a tougher test against the Netherlands, a perennial European powerhouse. While the match ended in a 1-1 draw, the Azzurre held their own, with defender Sara Gama marshalling a resolute backline. Fiorentina striker Daniela Sabatino equalized late in the game, underlining Italy’s ability to compete with top-tier teams even when under pressure.
Tactical Evolution Under Bertolini
One of the most notable aspects of Italy’s recent performances has been their tactical flexibility. Bertolini has experimented with a 4-3-1-2 formation, allowing for a compact defensive structure while maximizing the creativity of playmakers like Giugliano. This setup has enabled Italy to transition quickly from defense to attack, a stark contrast to their more conservative approach in previous years.
The emphasis on youth development is also paying dividends. Emerging talents like AS Roma’s Giada Greggi have slotted seamlessly into the midfield, bringing energy and dynamism. Combined with the veteran presence of players like Gama and Girelli, Italy appears to be striking a balance between experience and potential—a critical factor as they build toward World Cup qualification.
Why This Matters for Italy
Italy’s women’s team has historically been a second-tier force in Europe, often overshadowed by nations like Germany, France, and England. However, their quarterfinal run at the 2019 World Cup signaled a shift, and the current trajectory suggests they could be dark horses for 2027. These friendlies are not just about results; they’re about building confidence and refining a style of play that can challenge elite teams in high-stakes tournaments.
The resurgence also reflects the growth of women’s soccer in Italy at the domestic level. Serie A Femminile has seen increased investment and professionalism in recent years, with clubs like Juventus and Roma producing world-class talent. This pipeline is now feeding into the national team, creating a virtuous cycle that could elevate Italy’s standing long-term.
Challenges on the Horizon
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Italy’s depth is still a concern, as injuries to key players could expose a lack of quality replacements. Additionally, while they’ve shown they can compete with teams like the Netherlands, consistency against top-10 ranked sides will be the true test. Upcoming fixtures against stronger opponents in the UEFA Women’s Nations League will provide a clearer picture of their progress.
Broader Implications for Women’s Soccer
Italy’s revival adds another layer of intrigue to the European women’s soccer landscape. With traditional powerhouses like Spain and England dominating headlines, the emergence of teams like Italy ensures that qualifying for major tournaments will be fiercely competitive. For fans of the global game, it’s a reminder that women’s soccer continues to grow in depth and unpredictability, setting the stage for an exciting buildup to the 2027 World Cup.
As Italy prepares for their next set of matches, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and fine-tuning their squad. If they can sustain this level of performance, the Azzurre could well be a force to reckon with in the coming years. For now, their March friendlies have given supporters plenty to cheer about—and a renewed belief in the potential of Italian women’s soccer.