In a night of heart-stopping drama, England’s Lionesses secured their place in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final with a 2-1 extra-time triumph over a resilient Italy side. The reigning champions showcased their grit and never-say-die spirit, overturning a deficit with late heroics from substitutes Michelle Agyemang and Chloe Kelly to book a spot in their second consecutive European Championship final.
The match, played last night, was a rollercoaster of emotions for the fans in attendance and millions watching worldwide. England faced an Italian side playing with confidence and tactical discipline, proving they were no pushovers.
MICHELLE AGYEMANG.
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 22, 2025
The gift that keeps on giving! 🤩 Where would the Lionesses be without her?#WEuro2025 #WomensEuros pic.twitter.com/mpVbjeqhgv
First Half: Italy Strike First
The game started evenly, with England edging possession but struggling to find their rhythm against Italy’s well-organized defense. The Lionesses’ early promise fizzled as Italy capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 33rd minute. Sofia Cantore outpaced the defense down the right, delivering a pinpoint cross that fell to Barbara Bonansea. The forward smashed the ball into the roof of the net, stunning England and setting the tone for a frustrating first half.
England had chances to respond, with Alessia Russo firing wide and Lauren James forcing saves from Italy’s goalkeeper, but they lacked precision in the final third. At halftime, the team talk reportedly included a fiery call to regroup.
Second Half: England Fight Back
The second half saw a reinvigorated England side, with Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway stepping up in midfield to stretch Italy’s compact shape. Lauren Hemp found space on the wings but couldn’t deliver the killer cross, while Russo was stifled by Italy’s defense. Despite England’s pressure, Italy held firm, with their goalkeeper making crucial interventions.
As the clock ticked toward the 90th minute, England’s hopes seemed to fade. The manager turned to the bench, bringing on Chloe Kelly, Michelle Agyemang, and Aggie Beever-Jones. The substitutions proved a masterstroke. In the sixth minute of stoppage time, a scramble in the Italy box saw 19-year-old Agyemang spin and fire a low drive into the net, sending the England fans into raptures and forcing extra time.
Extra Time: Kelly’s Moment of Magic
The additional 30 minutes were a test of endurance and nerve. England, now in an attacking formation, pushed forward relentlessly. Agyemang nearly won it with an audacious lob that clipped the crossbar, but the decisive moment came in the 119th minute. Beth Mead was fouled in the box, earning England a penalty. Chloe Kelly stepped up. Her powerful spot-kick was saved, but Kelly reacted quickest, pouncing on the rebound to poke the ball home and etch her name into Lionesses folklore once again. The goal sent England into the final and left Italy heartbroken.
Post-Match Reaction: Resilience and Belief
Chloe Kelly, named Player of the Match, spoke of the team’s belief: “We never give up. This group has something special, and we showed it tonight.” The manager praised the squad’s depth and character, highlighting the impact of the substitutes. Italy’s coach acknowledged their effort but lamented the late drama: “We gave everything, but football can be cruel.”
England now await the winner of the other semi-final, with the final set for Sunday, July 27, 2025. The Lionesses are one step away from defending their crown and cementing their legacy as one of Europe’s greatest sides. For Italy, it’s a painful exit, but their spirited campaign signals a bright future.
England Starting XI:
Hampton; Bronze, Williamson (C), Morgan, Greenwood; Toone, Walsh, Stanway; James, Russo, Hemp
Italy Starting XI:
Giuliani; Lenzini, Salvai, Linari, Di Guglielmo; Oliviero, Caruso, Giugliano, Bonansea; Cantore, Girelli
Final Score: England 2-1 Italy (AET)
Scorers: Bonansea 33’ (Italy), Agyemang 90+6’, Kelly 119’ (England)
