England are through to another Women’s Euro final after a dramatic 2-1 win over Italy in extra time, their first-ever victory against the Azzurre in this tournament.
The Lionesses started strongly, keeping the ball well and putting Italy under pressure early on. Italy made a few mistakes as they struggled to keep up. Lucy Bronze, playing in her 35th major tournament match , was lucky not to get booked for a heavy challenge as England tried to take control. England had a good chance after just 10 minutes when Lauren James met a cross from Lauren Hemp, but her shot was saved by the Italian keeper Laura Giuliani.
Although England were on top, Italy began to push forward, helped by their captain Cristiana Girelli. England kept attacking down the wings, especially through Hemp, whose crosses were dangerous. Alessia Russo nearly got her first goal of the tournament. With the midfield packed, both sides started using long balls over the top and to the wings. As England’s tempo dropped, Arianna Caruso became more involved for Italy.
Then, out of nowhere, Italy scored. After not even having a touch in the England box for the first half-hour, Barbara Bonansea smashed the ball into the roof of the net. That made it five games in a row at the Euros where Italy scored first. The goal gave them confidence, and they finished the first half looking stronger, with Lucia Di Guglielmo impressing on the ball.
The second half picked up where the first left off. Hannah Hampton had to be sharp in goal, and Hemp missed a good chance before going close again minutes later. Girelli was still pulling the strings for Italy, but she had to go off with an injury just after the hour mark.
Italy then began slowing the game down and wasting time. England, who had most of the ball, struggled to break down Italy’s solid defence. As full-time neared, England were getting nervous but kept pushing. They were unlucky when a shot was cleared off the line late on. But just as the match looked lost, 18-year-old Michelle Agyemang stepped up and smashed in the equaliser in added time.
In extra time, England were far more attacking, with four forwards on the pitch. Agyemang caused problems again, and Chloe Kelly went on a great run that nearly ended in a goal. Italy sat deeper, clearly hoping to make it to penalties.
With just minutes left, Agyemang hit the bar with a looping shot. Soon after, Beth Mead was fouled in the box. Kelly stepped up to take the penalty. Her shot was saved, but she was quick to react and scored the rebound.
That goal sealed the win and sent England into another final. Manager Sarina Wiegman has now reached three Women’s Euro finals in a row with different teams, an incredible achievement. England’s win also ends Italy’s unbeaten record against them in this competition.
