England and Italy Face Off for EM Final Spot in Women's Championship

England and Italy prepare for a pivotal EM semifinal, seeking a spot in the final.

Key Points

  • • England and Italy face off in the EM semifinals on July 21, 2025.
  • • Italy reaches the semifinals for the first time in 28 years, thanks to Girelli's performance.
  • • Lucy Bronze becomes England's oldest EM goalscorer during their comeback against Sweden.
  • • Leah Williamson's participation is uncertain due to injury.

In an eagerly anticipated semifinal of the 2025 European Women's Football Championship, England and Italy will clash on Tuesday at Stade de Genève, as both teams vie for a coveted place in the final. This match marks a significant moment in the tournament, particularly for Italy, who has reached the EM semifinals for the first time in 28 years.

The Italian squad, underdogs in the competition, is riding high after a dramatic match against Norway, where Cristiana Girelli emerged as the star, scoring twice including a thrilling last-minute header that secured their victory. Girelli expressed the importance of this achievement for women's football in Italy, stating, "We do this for our success, but there is a deeper meaning where we show that in Italy, women can also play football," reflecting on the progress of the sport after years of professionalization efforts.

England, the defending champions, advanced to this stage following a comeback against Sweden, with Lucy Bronze playing a pivotal role by scoring a header and converting a penalty. At 33 years and 262 days, Bronze became the oldest goalscorer for England in EM history, showcasing her enduring talent on the field. However, the team's captain, Leah Williamson, faces uncertainty for the semifinal due to a late injury sustained during the match against Sweden, which could impact England's chances in the crucial game.

This semifinal represents not just a chance for glory for both teams but also stands as a testament to the growing competitiveness in women's football. The match will take place at 21:00, and fans of both nations are poised for an exciting encounter as they support their teams in a bid for final participation in the championship.

As the teams prepare for battle, the stakes are high, and both England and Italy have much to prove on the road to the European crown.