Date Published 23 July 2025
On Tuesday, 22 July 2025, England's Lionesses sprung back into life with a dramatic extra time victory over Italy in Geneva, booking their place in the UEFA Women's Euro final for the second consecutive tournament.
👊 A Tale of Two Halves
England entered the last four trailing 1–0, stunned by Italy's Barbara Bonansea, who fired them ahead in the 33rd minute. For long spells, Italy's organized defence looked to hold firm. But in stoppage time, 19 year old Michelle Agyemang smashed home the equaliser—her second crucial goal of the tournament—to force extra time.
Then came Chloe Kelly, stepping up in the dying moments to score the decisive goal from her own rebound after her penalty was saved—sending England through to the final with a thrilling 2–1 win
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🔁 Super Subs, Super Punch
This semi-final echoed the quarter final drama against Sweden: England trailed before an inspired tactical shift, with one two punch substitutes—Agyemang and Kelly—delivering clutch goals in each match . Their impact reinforces Sarina Wiegman's faith in her bench strength and semifinal planning.
🛡 Resilience and Redemption
Wiegman's Lionesses twice showed immense character: recovering from behind to make this final, they continue their remarkable run of reaching three straight major tournament finals. England remain the first reigning champions to reach a Euro semi final since Germany in 2013.
⚠️ Tactical Pressure Ahead
Despite victory, critics pointed out a lack of fluency and direction throughout much of the match. There's lingering concern over consistency, and questions about whether Wiegman's game plan is evolving fast enough—especially with mounting tests ahead, like Germany or Spain in the final.
🔮 What Next?
England will now prepare for a showdown in Basel on Sunday, 27 July, either against Germany or Spain. It's a chance not just to defend their crown, but to build a legacy—balancing grit and growth, youth and experience.
