The first semi-final of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 will see England take on Italy on 22 July at the Stade de Genève in Switzerland, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 CEST. England reached the semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Sweden in the quarter-finals, maintaining their strong tournament run. Italy, on the other hand, pulled off a surprise win over Norway, marking their return to the semi-finals for the first time since 1997. Both teams are now just one win away from the final, which will take place in Basel on 27 July. This highly anticipated clash promises a thrilling contest between two determined sides fighting for European glory.
Recent Team Form
A breakdown of the recent form for both teams heading into Semi‑Final 1: England vs Italy:
England
• Group Stage:
Lost 1–2 vs France, opening the tournament with a difficult start.
Then bounced back to beat the Netherlands 4–0 and Wales 6–1 to finish second in Group D.
• Quarter‑Final vs Sweden:
After falling 2–0 down early, England rallied with late goals from Lucy Bronze and Michelle Agyemang to force extra time. They eventually won in a dramatic penalty shoot‑out 3–2 (after nine misses across both sides), thanks to heroics from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.
The match attracted widespread praise for England’s resilience despite tactical criticisms of their slow start and subs.
• Overall Trend:
England overcame an underwhelming opener to show strong attacking form (10 goals in two group games) and mental resilience under pressure. Their recent performances underscore their ability to respond to adversity.
Key Observations:
• Rebounding aggressively after early setback.
• High-scoring in group stage (10 goals over 2 games).
• Showcased strength in depth and composure under pressure in shoot-out
Italy
• Group Stage (Group B):
Beat Belgium 1–0
Drew 1–1 with Portugal
Lost 3–1 to Spain, finishing second in the group and advancing to knockouts.
• Quarter‑Final vs Norway:
Italy pulled off a historic 2–1 win, with Cristiana Girelli scoring both goals including a late match-winner, sealing their first Women’s Euro semi-final in 28 years.
• Overall Trend:
Italy showed tactical discipline and determination: solid in defense and clinical in attack when it mattered. Girelli is in strong form and leading the team’s resurgence.
Key Observations:
• Steady group-phase consistency.
• Tactical focus and clutch performances in quarter-final clincher.
• Girelli’s strike form is driving their su
Team Details
A comprehensive overview of Team Details for Semi‑Final 1: England vs Italy:
England
• Head Coach: Sarina Wiegman – a two-time Women’s Euro winner, 2017 with the Netherlands, 2022 with England, now leading England in her quest for a third continental title.
• Captain: Leah Williamson – central defender and inspirational leader; recently praised for keeping the squad together during the tense quarter-final shootout against Sweden.
• Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton – at just 24, she stepped in following Mary Earps’ retirement. Her penalty shoot‑out heroics against Sweden earned her UEFA Player of the Match and widespread acclaim.
• Key Players:
Lucy Bronze – veteran right-back and tournament workhorse; scored the crucial equaliser against Sweden before delivering under pressure in the shootout.
Michelle Agyemang – just 19, made her debut this year and scored the equaliser in the quarter-final vs Sweden; one of seven debutantes in the squad.
Lauren James, Georgia Stanway, Keira Walsh, Alessia Russo, Beth Mead – experienced names in midfield and attack, combining creativity, tenacity, and goalscoring pedigree.
• Squad Profile: A balanced roster of 13 Euro 2022 winners and emerging talents. Key figures like Mary Earps, Millie Bright, and Fran Kirby are absent due to retirement or withdrawal. England rely on their blend of experience and youth depth to defend their title.
Italy
• Head Coach: Andrea Soncin – former Serie A striker turned coach in 2023; his tactical leadership has been central to Italy’s return to the semis for the first time since 1997.
• Key Midfielder: Manuela Giugliano – the creative heartbeat of the team; cites renewed energy and unity as major drivers of Italy’s knockout success.
• Forward to Watch: Cristiana Girelli – captain and veteran striker aged 35, has carried Italy’s attack with pivotal goals, including a brace against Norway in the quarter-final.
• Defensive Rock: Lisa Boattin – seasoned Juventus full-back with nearly 50 caps, anchoring a disciplined backline.
• Squad Dynamics: A well-drilled side primarily built from Italy’s Serie A, supplemented by a few overseas players like Arianna Caruso. While goal-scoring has traditionally been a challenge, the team’s cohesion and tactical structure have powered them deep into the tournament.
Predicted lineups
The predicted starting lineups for the England vs Italy UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 semi-final on 22 July– based on expert projections and recent matches:
England – Projected XI (4‑3‑3)
According to UEFA’s predictions and recent match trends, England’s likely lineup is as follows:
Hampton; Bronze, Williamson, Carter, Greenwood; Toone, Walsh, Stanway; James, Russo, Hemp
Key notes:
• Hannah Hampton is expected to start in goal after her impressive performances in recent games.
• Defensive line likely includes Lucy Bronze (RB), Leah Williamson and Jess Carter at centre-back, with Alex Greenwood at LB.
• The midfield trio of Ella Toone, Keira Walsh, and Georgia Stanway is projected to provide balance between creativity, control, and energy.
• Front three features Lauren James and Lauren Hemp flanking a central striker, Alessia Russo, who is the likely number nine and in fine form.
Tactical Insight & Substitutions
- England will likely deploy a conventional 4‑3‑3 shape emphasizing width and midfield balance.
- Sub options: Beth Mead, Michelle Agyemang, Chloe Kelly, Niamh Charles, Grace Clinton among bench contenders.
Italy – Projected XI (likely 4‑3‑3 or 4‑2‑3‑1)
Per UEFA lineup projections and recent tactic setup:
Giuliani; Oliviero, Salvai, Linari, Di Guglielmo; Greggi, Giugliano, Severini; Caruso; Cantore, Girelli
Highlights:
• Laura Giuliani is expected starting goalkeeper.
• The defense is built around experienced Serie A backs: Salvai, Linari, Di Guglielmo, and Oliviero.
• Midfield trio includes Manuela Giugliano as creative hub, supported by Emma Severini and Giada Greggi or similar.
• Up front, Cristiana Girelli leads the attack with Sofia Cantore and Arianna Caruso providing support on the wings or wide attacking positions.
Tactical Insight & Substitutions:
- Italy are expected to remain structured and disciplined with a focus on tight defensive shape and clinical finishing from Girelli.
- Bench cover may include experienced players like Bonansea and Giacinti.
Importance of the Semi-Final – England vs Italy
A point-to-point format instead of a paragraph, clearly outlining the importance of the England vs Italy UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 semi-final:
Tournament Significance:
• Decides one of the two finalists for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.
England’s Perspective:
• Chance to defend their 2022 Euro title and reach consecutive finals.
• Opportunity to solidify their status as the leading force in European women’s football.
• Showcase the strength of their new generation blended with experienced stars.
Italy’s Perspective:
• First Euro semi-final since 1997 – a historic moment for the team.
• A chance to complete their comeback after years outside the elite level.
• Strong performances can reignite women’s football momentum in Italy.
Tactical Relevance:
• England’s dynamic attack vs Italy’s defensive discipline offers a contrasting tactical battle.
• Key test for both managers: Sarina Wiegman’s experience vs Andrea Soncin’s breakthrough leadership.
Broader Impact:
• Increases visibility for women’s football across Europe.
• Highlights growth of competitive depth—traditional powerhouses vs resurging underdogs.
Final Qualification:
• The winner advances to the final in Basel on 27 July, with a shot at becoming European champions.
Conclusion – England vs Italy
The semi-final between England and Italy is a defining moment in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. England enters as the reigning champions with the ambition of defending their crown and cementing their dominance in European football. Italy, meanwhile, stands on the verge of history, seeking their first Euro final appearance in nearly three decades. With both teams showcasing contrasting styles—England’s attacking flair versus Italy’s tactical discipline—this clash promises intensity, emotion, and high stakes. Regardless of the outcome, the match is a celebration of how far women’s football has come and a preview of where it’s headed.
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