England’s Lionesses have roared into their second successive UEFA European Women’s Championship final, overcoming Italy in a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory. The hard-fought semi-final clash marked England’s first-ever win against Le Azzurre in the tournament’s history.
Sarina Wiegman’s side began with relentless pressure and controlled possession, immediately putting Italy on the back foot. Veteran Lucy Bronze, making her 35th major tournament appearance—equaling Jill Scott’s record— narrowly escaped a booking for a robust challenge as England sought to assert dominance. An early opportunity arose in the 10th minute when Lauren James connected with Lauren Hemp’s cross, but her effort was collected by Italian goalkeeper Laura Giuliani.
Despite England setting the pace, Italy gradually found their rhythm, spearheaded by their brilliant captain Cristiana Girelli. Hemp’s crosses consistently troubled the Italian defense, with Alessia Russo coming close to her first goal of the tournament. However, as England’s intensity dipped, Italy’s Arianna Caruso became more influential. Against the run of play, and after a half-hour without a touch in England’s box, Barbara Bonansea smashed the ball into the roof of the net, marking the fifth consecutive Women’s Euros game in which Italy had opened the scoring. Both teams accelerated their play as halftime approached, with Italy finishing the half stronger.
The second half mirrored the first’s end, with Italy threatening early, forcing Hannah Hampton into action. England struggled to break down a resolute Italian defense, despite holding nearly two-thirds of possession. As the clock ticked towards full-time, nervousness crept in for England, who saw a late chance cleared off the line. However, with just two minutes of stoppage time remaining, teenage substitute Michelle Agyemang drilled home a crucial equalizer, sending the game into extra time.
With four attackers on the pitch, England became more expansive in extra time, pinning Italy back. Agyemang’s movement created problems, and Chloe Kelly, another substitute, nearly scored after a wonderful slaloming run. Italy, exhausted and focused on reaching a penalty shootout, sat deep. With four minutes left, Agyemang almost sealed it with a looping shot that hit the crossbar. Moments later, Emma Severini fouled Beth Mead in the box, leading to a penalty. Chloe Kelly stepped up, and although her initial shot was saved by Giuliani, she instinctively poked home the rebound, sending England into jubilation.
The victory means Sarina Wiegman becomes only the second manager to lead a national team to three successive Women’s European Championship finals, simultaneously ending Italy’s historical dominance over the Lionesses in this competition. England now awaits the winner of the semi-final clash between Ghana and Morocco for the final showdown.
