England Defeats Italy In Extra Time To Reach Women’s Euro 2025 Final

Chloe Kelly scored a dramatic extra-time winner as defending champions England came from behind to defeat Italy 2-1 on Tuesday and reach the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final.

England were on the brink of elimination after Barbara Bonansea gave underdogs Italy a first-half lead in Geneva. But just like in their quarterfinal against Sweden—where they recovered from two goals down to win on penalties—the Lionesses delivered another stunning comeback.

Michelle Agyemang, brought off the bench late in the game, levelled the score in the 96th minute, forcing extra time. Then, in the 119th minute, Kelly stepped up to take a penalty after Beth Mead was fouled in the box. Although her spot-kick was saved by Laura Giuliani, Kelly reacted quickest to fire home the rebound and send England into Sunday’s final in Basel.

Sarina Wiegman’s side, the 2022 European champions, have now reached a third consecutive major final. They will face either Spain or Germany, who meet in the second semifinal on Wednesday. The final will be a rematch of either the 2023 Women’s World Cup final against Spain or the Euro 2022 final against Germany.

Italy, ranked 13th in the world and surprise semifinalists, had stunned the crowd by taking the lead in the 33rd minute. Sofia Cantore burst down the right flank and delivered a cross that found Bonansea at the back post. The Juventus winger controlled the ball and lashed it into the roof of the net from close range.

Despite some first-half chances from Alessia Russo and Lauren James, England went into the break trailing. Wiegman made a change at halftime, bringing on Beth Mead, and later introduced Kelly and Agyemang in a bold attacking move—especially when the teenager replaced centre-back and captain Leah Williamson.

Italy came close to sealing the win late in regular time when Hannah Hampton made a crucial double save in the 86th minute, denying both Michela Cambiaghi and Emma Severini at a corner. That proved pivotal, as Giuliani—who had been excellent all match—spilt a cross in stoppage time. Agyemang capitalised, taking a touch and drilling the ball into the net to make it 1-1.

England dominated extra time. Kelly nearly scored directly from a corner, and Agyemang saw a chipped effort beat Giuliani but hit the crossbar. With penalties looming, England were awarded a spot-kick when Mead was pushed in the area. Kelly’s initial effort was saved, but she followed up to score the winner in the 119th minute.

Italy’s dream of reaching a first Euro final since 1997 came to a heartbreaking end, while England celebrated another dramatic victory in their pursuit of back-to-back European titles.