Women’s Euros: Belgium seals first-ever quarterfinal spot, Iceland misses out

The Belgians secured their first-ever knockout qualification with a 1-0 win over Italy, while Iceland had to miss out on a last-eight spot

Belgium players celebrate after progressing to the quarter finals.

Belgium secured the last quarterfinal spot at the Euro 2022 with a 1-0 win over Italy on Monday.

The Hoffenheim striker Tina De Caigny's goal in the second half ensured her side of second place in Group B behind France to set up a last-eight meeting with Sweden on Friday.

This will be Belgium's first knockout stage appearance.

"This is a historic night for Belgian women's football," said Belgium coach Ives Serneels.

For Iceland, a 1-1 draw against France was not enough to progress. They bowed out of the competition despite finishing the group stage unbeaten.

France fielded a heavily-changed line-up in order to keep the reserves for its last eight clash with defending champion the Netherlands on Saturday.