Daijiworld Media Network - Geneva

Geneva, Jul 21: England’s Lionesses are one step away from reaching another major tournament final as they gear up to take on Italy in the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 on Tuesday. After a dramatic comeback win over Sweden, England enter the clash in Geneva as firm favourites.

In what is now their sixth consecutive semi-final across Women’s Euros and World Cups, England are looking to repeat their historic 2022 Euro triumph. Despite trailing 0-2 to Sweden in the quarter-finals, Sarina Wiegman’s side staged a sensational revival, scoring twice in three minutes to force extra time and eventually sealing a 3-2 win in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

“I really had a sense throughout the game, even when we were down, that it wasn’t our time to go,” said defender Esme Morgan, echoing the team’s fighting spirit. Coach Wiegman, aiming for her third consecutive Euros title after victories with the Netherlands in 2017 and England in 2022, admitted she thought “about three times we were out.”

Though England stumbled against France in their opening group fixture and were dominated by Sweden early on, substitute performances by Michelle Agyemang and Chloe Kelly reinvigorated the team. Their track record against Italy also boosts confidence — England defeated them 5-1 in a 2023 friendly and 2-1 in the 2022 Arnold Clark Cup.

Italy, ranked 13th in the world, are surprise semi-finalists. They finished second behind Spain in their group and edged past Norway in the quarters, thanks to a brace by veteran forward Cristiana Girelli. “Getting to the semi-finals is already a big achievement,” said defender Martina Lenzini. “We’re humble, but we knew we had the potential.”

However, England’s preparations were marred by news of racial abuse aimed at defender Jess Carter. The Football Association has informed police after Carter revealed she has faced repeated racist messages during the tournament. “I don’t think it’s OK to target someone’s appearance or race,” she said in a strong statement online.

Meanwhile, there’s cautious optimism over the fitness of captain Leah Williamson, who suffered an ankle injury against Sweden. “We’re very optimistic that Leah will be fine,” confirmed Morgan.

If England overcome Italy, they’ll meet either Germany or reigning world champions Spain in Sunday’s final.