Italy were the first team to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s European Championship after Cristiana Girelli scored a dramatic last-minute header to seal a 2-1 win over Norway in Geneva.
It was the first time since 2013 that both teams had made it to the quarter-finals, but Italy started the stronger side. Arianna Caruso went close early on, just missing the far post. Italy kept up the pressure, and Barbara Bonansea sent in a great cross, but Emma Severini and Girelli got in each other’s way trying to head it in.
Severini and Manuela Giugliano both had chances before half-time, but couldn’t take them. Norway, meanwhile, had their first real opportunity when Lisa Naalsund’s low cross was deflected just wide. Right before the break, Signe Gaupset almost gave Norway a surprise lead, trying a bold 50-yard shot after spotting Italy’s goalkeeper off her line – but it just missed.
Italy came out strong after half-time and didn’t take long to score. Sofia Cantore cut inside and her low shot was tapped in by Girelli – her 60th goal for Italy. They thought they’d scored again minutes later, but Severini’s goal was ruled out for offside earlier in the move.
The match remained intense. Norway won a penalty when Elena Linari fouled Ada Hegerberg in the box. But Hegerberg surprisingly missed the target. Soon after, she made up for it by running onto a long ball and slotting it past the keeper to make it 1-1.
Both teams pushed for a winner. Ingrid Engen came close for Norway, curling a shot just wide. But it was Italy who had the final say. In the last minute of the match, Girelli found space and headed in Cantore’s perfect cross. Norway couldn’t come back, and Italy moved on to the semi-finals, where they’ll face either England or Sweden.
