England Face Dark Horses Italy With Eyes Firmly Set on Women’s Euro Final

Having clawed their way back from near-elimination against Sweden in the quarter-finals, England will now aim to live up to their billing as favourites as they face Italy in the semi-finals of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 this Tuesday in Geneva.

The reigning champions are just one win away from a second consecutive major tournament final, where they would meet either Germany or world champions Spain in the grand finale scheduled for Sunday.

Dramatic Route to the Semis

The Lionesses’ journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. Against Sweden in Zurich last Thursday, England were 2-0 down late in the match, before two goals within three minutes levelled the score and forced extra time. A tense penalty shoot-out followed, which ended 3-2 in England’s favour, sparking scenes of celebration.

This will now mark England’s sixth consecutive semi-final appearance across Women’s Euros and World Cups — a testament to their consistent excellence on the international stage.

Despite their high ranking and strong pedigree, manager Sarina Wiegman admitted to feeling the pressure in the Sweden match:

“I thought about three times we were out,” Wiegman confessed, still chasing a third straight Women’s Euro title after winning with the Netherlands in 2017 and England in 2022.

Defender Esme Morgan echoed that sense of emotional intensity:

“I really had a sense throughout the game, even when we were down, that it wasn’t our time to go,” she told the English media over the weekend.

Italy’s Surprise Surge

In contrast, Italy’s presence in the semi-finals is something of a fairytale. Ranked 13th in the world, the Azzurre were not expected to reach this stage. Their quarter-final victory over Norway, sealed by two goals from veteran striker Cristiana Girelli — including a last-minute winner — secured them a spot in their first major semi-final since the 1997 Euros.

Italian defender Martina Lenzini reflected on their unexpected journey:

“It’s exciting because we are going to face the reigning champions… we are always humble, but we were aware that we could get to this stage.”

Recent Head-to-Head & Tactical Edge

England have had the upper hand in recent meetings with Italy:

While England were shaken in the group stage, losing to France and being overrun by Sweden in the first half of their quarter-final, they have found renewed strength through impactful substitutions — particularly Michelle Agyemang and Chloe Kelly, who helped turn the tide against Sweden.

Off-Pitch Concern: Jess Carter Faces Racist Abuse

England’s preparations have, however, been overshadowed by a troubling revelation: defender Jess Carter, capped 49 times for England, has been the target of racist abuse during the tournament.

“From the start of the tournament I have experienced a lot of racial abuse,” Carter revealed on social media.
“Whilst I feel every fan is entitled to their opinion on performance and result, I don’t agree or think it’s OK to target someone’s appearance or race.”

The Football Association has contacted police regarding the abuse, which has cast a shadow over what has otherwise been a spirited campaign.

Injury Watch: Leah Williamson’s Fitness in Question

England are also sweating over the fitness of captain Leah Williamson, who was forced off with an ankle injury during the Sweden match. Defender Esme Morgan gave a hopeful update:

“We’re very optimistic that Leah will be fine,” she said.

As England prepare to meet Italy in a match loaded with history, hope, and high stakes, all eyes will be on Geneva this Tuesday. Victory would not only see the Lionesses into another final but further solidify their status as a dominant force in women’s football.