England vs Italy: High Stakes in Geneva as Euro Final Beckons

A place in the Women's European Championship final is on the line as England and Italy lock horns in a tantalising semi-final showdown in Geneva on Tuesday.

Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

England's route to the last four has been anything but smooth. The reigning champions stumbled out of the blocks with a 2-1 defeat to France, but quickly regrouped to dispatch both the Netherlands and Wales to secure second place in Group D.

Their quarter-final clash with Sweden was a rollercoaster. Trailing 2-0 within 25 minutes, the Lionesses showed grit and belief. Lucy Bronze gave them hope late on, before Michelle Agyemang levelled just two minutes later. 

What followed was one of the tournament's most dramatic penalty shootouts — only five of 14 penalties were converted, but England survived the chaos thanks to a crucial miss from Smilla Holmberg.

Now in their seventh Women's Euros semi-final, Sarina Wiegman's squad are hoping history repeats itself, having thrashed Sweden 4-0 at this stage in 2022. England have also won four of their last five meetings with Italy, including a thumping 5-1 friendly victory in February.

But Italy aren't here to make up the numbers. Under Andrea Soncin, they've been one of the surprise packages of the tournament, reaching their first Euro semi-final since 1997 and knocking out previously unbeaten Norway with a dramatic 90th-minute header from Cristiana Girelli.

Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images

It's been a spirited campaign from Le Azzurre — they edged Belgium in their opener, drew with Portugal, and did just enough in a 3-1 loss to Spain to progress. They entered the tournament with modest aims, but now find themselves dreaming of a maiden title.

Despite their underdog tag, Soncin insists his side are ready:

"It's a wide-open match. The belief and passion these girls bring gives us a huge boost. Our goal is the 27th – and to get there, we need full commitment."

Speaking with measured focus ahead of the semi-final, Wiegman stressed the importance of respect and sharpness.

"It would be disrespectful to call us favourites. They've earned their spot, and we'll need to be at our best. They're compact, tough to break down — we must be precise and alert."

Italy have lost their last three friendlies against England, but can take heart from their competitive record, including a 2-1 win at Euro 2009.

Both teams are one step from glory — one riding the weight of expectation, the other fuelled by the thrill of defying it. Expect fire, flair, and 90 (or more) minutes of pure drama in Geneva.