Italy W vs North Macedonia W

Italy seized control from the opening whistle. Playing in front of home supporters at the Palazzeto dello Sport in Fasano, they built an unassailable lead by half-time and never allowed North Macedonia back into the contest. The Azzurre's attacking fluidity — sharp off-the-ball movement and clinical finishing — proved too much for a North Macedonian defence that had conceded 43 against Tunisia and 37 against Algeria earlier in the week.

North Macedonia struggled to cope with Italy's pace in transition. Every Italian turnover in defence was quickly converted into a fast-break goal, stretching the margin further in the second half.

There was no single moment that swung the game — Italy's superiority was established inside the opening 15 minutes. The hosts' early multi-goal run forced North Macedonia into chasing the game, which only opened further spaces for Italy's backcourt shooters. By the time North Macedonia stabilised defensively, the match was effectively decided.

Individual scorer data was not published with the official match payload, but Italy's collective output — 39 goals — reflects a team firing on all cylinders. Their goalkeeping unit also stood out; conceding only 16 against a North Macedonia side that had averaged 23 goals per game prior to this fixture.

For North Macedonia, the tournament has been a difficult return to the Mediterranean Games. They entered this match having lost three of their four preliminary fixtures and were unable to contain Italy's relentless attacking rhythm.

Italy's 39 goals represent the highest single-game total of the Mediterranean Games Women's tournament so far. By contrast, North Macedonia's 16 is the lowest output of any side in the competition to date. The 23-goal differential underscores the gulf in form between the tournament hosts and a North Macedonian side that has now conceded an average of 35.8 goals across four matches.

The Mediterranean Games Women's tournament features six teams in a round-robin preliminary round, with the top two advancing to the gold medal match (1 September) and the third- and fourth-placed sides contesting the bronze. Italy, after losing their opener 25–22 to Tunisia, have now won three consecutive matches — against Algeria (27–17), Kosovo (38–21) and North Macedonia. They sit second in the standings behind Tunisia, who remain unbeaten.

North Macedonia remain winless after four matches and will need a strong finish to avoid the wooden spoon.

Italy's next fixture is their final preliminary match, scheduled for 30 August, while North Macedonia close their campaign against Greece.

Italy peaked at the right time. This performance sent a clear message to the rest of the tournament: on home soil and with momentum building, they are legitimate medal contenders. For North Macedonia, the focus shifts to salvaging pride in their remaining matches.