England's women's football team secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Italy in extra time during the Euro 2025 semifinals, advancing to their third consecutive European Championship final. The match saw late-game heroics from substitutes Chloe Kelly and Michelle Agyemang, who both replicated their quarterfinal rescue act against Sweden.
Italy's Barbara Bonansea opened scoring with a 33rd-minute volley, maintaining their lead until the 119th minute when Kelly converted a rebound after her initial penalty was saved. Agyemang had earlier forced extra time by equalizing deep into stoppage time through goalkeeper Laura Giuliani's rare error.
"It's bittersweet – we were minutes from glory," said Italy coach Andrea Soncin, while England's Sarina Wiegman acknowledged the tension: "I enjoy these moments, but the drama tests us all." England now prepares to face either Spain or Germany in Sunday's Basel final, renewing rivalries from their 2022 Euro triumph and 2023 World Cup defeat.
The match highlighted Italy's defensive resilience through Elena Linari and Cecilia Salvai, while England's persistence under pressure continues defining their tournament journey. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton's crucial 86th-minute save against Emma Severini proved pivotal in keeping England's hopes alive.
