In a gripping contest that came down to the final possession, the Belgium Women’s national basketball team edged past Italy Women with a narrow 62–60 victory in their Club Friendship matchup on August 17, 2026. The game, which featured multiple lead changes and a suffocating defensive tempo, offered both sides a valuable test as they continue their preparations on the international stage.

Match Overview: A Battle of Runs and Resilience

From the opening tip, the game lived up to its billing as a tightly contested friendly. Belgium and Italy traded baskets in a low-scoring first quarter, with neither side able to establish a lead larger than four points. Italy’s crisp perimeter ball movement gave them a slim edge at the end of the first half, but Belgium responded with a more physical approach after the break.

The third quarter proved decisive in tone if not in score. Belgium’s frontcourt began to control the glass, converting second-chance opportunities and forcing Italy into contested jump shots. A 9–2 run midway through the period gave Belgium a lead they would never entirely surrender, although Italy remained within striking distance throughout the final ten minutes.

Key Moments: A Test of Composure

• Belgium's third-quarter surge: A decisive 9–2 spurt, powered by offensive rebounds and transition layups, flipped a two-point deficit into a seven-point advantage.
• Italy's fourth-quarter response: A pair of deep three-pointers from the perimeter brought Italy back to within one point with under two minutes to play.
• The defining defensive stop: With Italy trailing 62–60 and possession in the closing seconds, Belgium’s full-court pressure forced a difficult step-back attempt that clanged off the rim, sealing the victory.

Tactical Story: Inside Presence vs. Perimeter Precision

Belgium leaned on their size advantage, repeatedly feeding the post and crashing the offensive boards. Their interior scoring kept Italy’s defense honest, which in turn opened up kick-out passes for mid-range looks. Italy, by contrast, relied on high ball screens and off-ball movement to generate open three-point attempts. While Italy connected on a respectable number of outside shots, their inconsistency in the paint and on the defensive glass ultimately proved costly.

The pace of the game favored Belgium in the end. By slowing the tempo and turning the contest into a half-court battle, Belgium played to their strengths and controlled the game’s rhythm during crucial stretches of the second half.

Standout Players

For Belgium, Emma Meesseman delivered an all-around masterclass, finishing with a game-high in points while adding key rebounds and assists. Her leadership on the floor and ability to score from multiple levels were central to Belgium’s success. Italy’s most effective performer was Cecilia Zandalasini, who knocked down timely three-pointers and kept her team within reach during the final quarter.

Both coaches made full use of their benches, with several younger players receiving meaningful minutes. This mix of experience and emerging talent gave the friendly genuine competitive intensity and provided both staffs with plenty of material to review.

What This Result Means for Both Teams

As a Club Friendship tournament contest, the result carries no official standings pressure, but it does offer important confidence and chemistry-building moments. Belgium will take heart from their defensive resolve and ability to close out a tight game against a quality European opponent. Italy, meanwhile, will look to refine their late-game execution and find more consistency on the boards.

With the Belgium Women vs Italy Women rivalry continuing to develop, this 62–60 final score adds another chapter to their recent competitive history. Both teams leave the tournament with valuable lessons as they look ahead to the next window of international fixtures and future competitions.