England Suffers, Comeback and Goes to the Euro 2025 Final: Agyemang and Kelly’s Double

England Suffers, but Advances to the Euro 2025 Final

Geneva – England secured their place in the Euro 2025 final with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Italy in extra time. The “Lionesses” managed to prevail in a match full of emotions, demonstrating their resilience. Barbara Bonansea, 34, put Italy ahead in the first half, complicating the scenario for England. However, the entry of substitute Michelle Agyemang, six minutes from the end, changed the course of the match. Agyemang scored a crucial goal that equalized the score and forced extra time. In extra time, the current champion obtained a penalty in the 118th minute. Although Chloe Kelly missed the initial shot, she managed to convert the rebound, thus sealing the pass to the final against Spain or Germany, who will face each other on Sunday in Basel.

England’s persistence was rewarded. The story of Agyemang, the “savior”, continued. After having achieved the tie that took the match to extra time against Sweden, she was again key. Her finish, with a double nutmeg included, was precise and calm, despite her youth (19 years old). Being critical, the changes from the bench came late. Coach Sarina Wiegman was slow to make substitutions, although the entry of Beth Mead at halftime, apparently due to an injury to Lauren James, was justified. Kelly entered in the 77th minute, while Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones were introduced in the 85th minute. Although the changes proved effective, the wait seemed excessive. Italy, despite its meticulous game plan, was surpassed by English determination. Keira Walsh, key in the English midfield, was neutralized by Italy. The Italian strategy, which sought to nullify James and stifle long passes to Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo, almost worked. Andrea Soncin’s tactical approach was close to perfect, but concentration was lost in the last minute of added time. This allowed Agyemang to score the equalizer and, subsequently, a penalty conceded for a naive foul by Beth Mead sealed the match. England, for its part, must improve its defense. Defensive errors were evident, and the team did not appear solid in the back. The lack of a world-class left-back and the relocation of Alex Greenwood affected the game’s distribution.

The English forwards wasted several clear opportunities, which could be crucial against Spain or Germany. Russo was forced to work hard, with little help in the area and falling back to support in midfield. Despite the defeat, Italy left an indelible mark on the tournament. The support of their fans, the experience of Girelli, and the charisma of their coach, marked the Italian participation. The Italian fans waited 28 years to see their team in a European Championship semi-final. They hope it won’t take so long to enjoy this level of football again.

Italian veteran forward Cristiana Girelli, who retired from the field injured, deeply felt the defeat. Her leadership and passion were fundamental to the team. Bonansea, for her part, became the second oldest player to score in the history of the European Championship. Sofia Cantore, 25 years old, also showed her worth, taking advantage of England’s defensive errors. Despite the difficulties, England achieved victory, but will have to improve their performance before the final against Spain or Germany.