England and Italy will meet next Tuesday in Geneva with a place in the final of the 2025 Women's Euros at stake. Both teams arrive in the city buoyed by momentum from dramatic quarter-final wins, each showing resilience and flashes of quality on their respective paths through the tournament.
England continue their bid to retain the European crown following a remarkable comeback against Sweden in the quarter-finals. Trailing 2-0 with just over 10 minutes remaining, the Lionesses showed immense heart and character, with Lucy Bronze and Michelle Agyemang scoring in quick succession to force extra time. It was ultimately penalties that decided the contest, and England held their nerve to advance, becoming the first team to overturn a two-goal deficit in the knockout stage of this competition.
Sarina Wiegman’s side have navigated a demanding route to the last four, recovering from an opening defeat to France by producing emphatic wins over the Netherlands and Wales in the group phase. Their ability to raise performances under pressure has been a hallmark of this campaign, with senior figures like Bronze and Keira Walsh providing leadership, while the likes of Ella Toone, Lauren James, and more recently Agyemang, have added unpredictability and flair. In goal, Hannah Hampton has grown in confidence as the tournament has progressed, and while defensive lapses have occasionally cropped up, the Lionesses’ collective spirit has dragged them to this stage of the competition.
With injury doubts over captain Leah Williamson after she was forced off against Sweden, some adjustments at the back may be necessary, but the squad’s mix of experience and youth has shown adaptability throughout this summer.
Italy have captured attention by reaching their first Women’s Euro semi-final since 1997. Andrea Soncin’s side sealed their progress with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Norway, with veteran Cristiana Girelli scoring twice, including a last-minute header to book their place in the final four. The Italians finished runners-up in Group B behind Spain, edging Belgium and holding off Portugal to secure passage to the knockout phase.
The Azzurre’s campaign has been predicated on a stable defensive foundation and quick transitions in attack, with Girelli’s experience and knack for goals proving vital, while consistent displays from Sofia Cantore and Barbara Bonansea have been important. Soncin has cultivated a close-knit squad with strong unity, emphasising spirit and togetherness, qualities that are invaluable in international tournaments.
The Italians have shown an ability to adapt their tactics across different opposition, deploying compact defensive lines when needed but not shying away from proactive play when the time calls for it. Tactical cohesion and clarity in roles have been the cornerstone of the team's run to the semi-finals.
While Italy have performed well, it'll take a big effort for them to get past this England team. England are ranked eight places ahead of Italy in the world rankings and the Italians have arguably had a much kinder run to the semi-finals than England. England are looking to make three consecutive major tournament finals here and despite the issues within the team, they're in a very strong position to do that.
England 2-1 Italy
