In what felt more like a thriller than a football match, England overturned the odds to beat Italy 2–1 after extra time in the Women’s Euros semifinal. With the game slipping away in Geneva, two substitutes stepped in as unlikely saviours: 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang struck deep in stoppage time to force extra time, and Chloe Kelly sealed the comeback in the dying moments. England marches on to a third straight major final, where their resolve, depth, and flair will face off against Germany or Spain in Basel.
Italy strikes, England flounders
From early on, Italy’s disciplined defence stifled England’s rhythm. A beautifully struck goal from Barbara Bonansea in the first half stunned the Lionesses, leaving them with a mountain to climb. England dominated possession, but chances were scarce and squandered. Into the second half, Italy’s captain, Cristiana Girelli, limped off injured, a blow both tactically and emotionally for the Azzurre. Despite sustained pressure, England couldn’t break through—until the magic began to unfold in stoppage time.
Agyemang’s moment of magic
Enter Michelle Agyemang off the bench. The teenager, who scored on her senior debut in April, capitalised brilliantly in the 96th minute: a loose ball in the box, a clinical finish, and suddenly England were back in it. The turnaround mirrored her heroics in the quarterfinal and sparked wild celebrations. “I was proud of the team’s fight,” she said. “Four years ago I was ball girl, now I’m scoring goals.” It was a youthful gamble that paid off in spades.
Kelly the finisher strikes again
Extra time beckoned and with it, a second cameo moment. A penalty was awarded for a foul on Beth Mead—and Chloe Kelly, the scorer of the winning spot-kick in 2022, lined up. Her initial effort was saved, but she was first to the rebound and calmly tapped home the winner in the 119th minute. The stadium erupted as England booked their place in another final, epitomising the team’s resilience and flair under pressure.
A legacy of finals continues
By reaching this final, England became the first senior team in their history—men’s or women’s—to claim three major finals in a row. Manager Sarina Wiegman, now at her fifth successive final, called it “unbelievable” and praised the squad’s spirit. Super subs Agyemang and Kelly have become symbols of depth and daring. England now await either Spain or Germany in Basel—setting the stage for a heavyweight showdown at the Women’s Euro 2025 final.
