AUCKLAND: Italy emerged victorious in an exhilarating Group G match of the FIFA Women's World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 at the electrifying Eden Park on Monday, thanks to a crucial header from substitute Cristiana Girelli.

Throughout the game, both teams displayed exceptional skill and determination, making it an edge-of-the-seat spectacle. However, for a moment, it seemed that the match might end without a goal until the experienced substitute, Girelli, came to the rescue with a decisive goal just four minutes after stepping onto the field.

Girelli's goal not only secured the win for Italy but also earned her the distinction of being the first player to score in two editions of the FIFA Women's World Cup for Italy, adding another milestone to her remarkable career. Fans will fondly remember her hat-trick in the 2019 finals against Jamaica.

The match began at a frantic pace, with Argentina launching an early acrobatic effort from Mariana Lorroquette, narrowly missing the target. Italy, in response, thought they had broken the deadlock when Arianna Caruso skillfully turned and shot from the edge of the penalty area. However, the goal was disallowed as Valentina Giacinti was deemed to be in an offside position when the 16-year-old Giulia Dragoni released the ball.

The second half saw an intense back-and-forth battle, with both teams creating numerous opportunities but unable to gain the upper hand. It was then that Girelli, making an impact mere minutes after her entry, rose above the defense to meet a perfectly floated cross from Lisa Boattin and expertly headed it home to seal the victory for Italy.

Despite a late push from Argentina, Milena Bertolini's side held firm and secured all three points, setting them on a promising path in the tournament. The match's unpredictability and burstiness kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle, truly capturing the essence of the FIFA Women's World Cup.

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