Reigning champions England produced yet another dramatic comeback to book their place in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, edging past Italy 2-1 in extra time on Tuesday night in Geneva.
Teenage sensation Michelle Agyemang kept England’s title defence alive with a 96th-minute equaliser, before Chloe Kelly sealed the win with a dramatic strike in the 119th minute after her initial penalty was saved—sending the Lionesses into their third consecutive major final.
It was a night of high emotion and resilience, as Sarina Wiegman’s side once again proved their ability to dig deep and deliver when it matters most.
Agyemang Shines Again
The 19-year-old Agyemang, who only made her senior debut in April, continued her meteoric rise with another impactful appearance off the bench. Her goal—her second of the tournament—was a composed finish, drilled past Italy goalkeeper Laura Giuliani with ice-cold precision.
The Arsenal forward, who spent last season on loan at Brighton, has now scored three goals in just four caps for England, quickly becoming a fan favourite.
Kelly Delivers at the Death—Again
With just a minute left in extra time, Chloe Kelly—hero of the Euro 2022 final—once again stepped up. After her penalty was parried, she reacted quickest to smash home the rebound, clinching a famous win and sending the Lionesses into Sunday’s final in Basel.
England manager Sarina Wiegman, aiming for her third consecutive European Championship title as a coach, once again relied on her bench to make the difference—and they delivered in style.
England’s Never-Say-Die Spirit
The Lionesses have shown remarkable resilience throughout Euro 2025. After losing their opening match to France and battling from two goals down against Sweden in the quarter-finals, they once again came from behind when it looked like time had run out.
Despite a sluggish first half that saw Barbara Bonansea fire Italy in front, England’s second-half substitutions and tactical tweaks changed the game.
The victory underlines their squad depth and fighting spirit, though Wiegman will no doubt hope for a less stressful route in the final.
Italy Bow Out with Pride
Making their first semi-final appearance since 1997, Italy were the underdogs but nearly pulled off a famous upset. Bonansea’s first-half goal sparked wild celebrations, and coach Andrea Soncin’s tactical approach initially paid dividends.
However, Italy struggled to contain England’s energetic substitutes late on. Despite the heartbreak, they exit the tournament with pride, having recorded their most successful Euros campaign in 18 years.
Standout Performers
Michelle Agyemang: A breakout star, the teenager’s cool head under pressure continues to impress.
Chloe Kelly: Once again delivered a clutch moment, proving her big-game mentality and she was named the player of the match.
Esme Morgan: A composed display in defence, stepping in for Jess Carter with assurance.
Key Stats
Agyemang becomes the first teenager to score twice at a Euros since Norway’s Cecilie Pedersen in 2009. Kelly’s late winner in the 119th minute is the latest ever scored in Women’s Euros history. Lucy Bronze earned her 35th major tournament appearance, equaling Jill Scott’s all-time England record. Italy scored with their first touch inside England’s penalty box and their only shot on target.
What’s Next?
England will face the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between Germany and Spain in Sunday’s Euro 2025 final (17:00 BST, Basel). Italy exit the tournament but leave with heads held high after an inspiring run.