Lionesses Roar Again: England Stages Another Thrilling Comeback to Reach Women’s Euros Final

From the brink of elimination to the edge of glory, England defeats Italy 2-1 with a stunning injury-time equalizer and extra-time winner to book a spot in their second consecutive Women’s Euros final

Geneva, Switzerland – July 23, 2025
England’s Lionesses have once again etched their names into footballing folklore, delivering another dramatic late comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Italy in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 semifinal. With resilience, heart, and a flair for the cinematic, England advanced to their third consecutive major final, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout an emotionally charged night in Geneva.

Trailing for most of the match after a 33rd-minute strike from Italy’s Barbara Bonansea, England looked destined for heartbreak. The Azzurre had defied expectations early, with Sofia Cantore’s dangerous cross causing defensive chaos that Bonansea capitalized on, smashing the ball into the roof of the net.

Despite a spirited push, the Lionesses were repeatedly denied an equalizer by inspired Italian goalkeeper Laura Giuliani, whose heroics frustrated England through the second half.

But England thrives under pressure, and once again, it was Michelle Agyemang, the 19-year-old super-sub, who changed the course of the match. In the 96th minute, with less than two minutes of added time remaining, Giuliani could only parry a cross, allowing Agyemang to pounce and fire home the equalizer, igniting wild celebrations from teammates and fans alike.

“It is definitely a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat,” said forward Chloe Kelly, who would later play the hero. “These girls are brilliant – they make me so proud to be English.”

In extra time, the match teetered toward a penalty shootout—just like England’s quarterfinal against Sweden. But in the 117th minute, Beth Mead was fouled in the box, giving England a golden opportunity from the spot. Giuliani saved Kelly’s initial penalty, but the striker was quickest to react, slotting the rebound into the net and sending the Lionesses to Sunday’s final in Basel.

“It hasn’t really sunk in,” said defender Lucy Bronze. “I don’t think you’ll find a team in world football with more fight and more resilience than this England team. To come back, to never give up… we kept our dreams alive.”

England’s path to the final has been nothing short of breathtaking—rallying from 2-0 down against Sweden in the quarterfinals, winning on penalties, and now overcoming Italy with a dramatic turnaround. The reigning European champions will now face either Spain or Germany in a clash that promises to be as epic as their journey so far.

This latest triumph not only highlights England’s strength and depth but also their unshakable belief in the face of adversity. With unmatched spirit, tactical discipline, and emotional courage, the Lionesses continue to inspire a generation—proving once again why they are one of the fiercest teams in the world.