In an era that has seen the England Lionesses redefine success in women`s football, their journey to the Euro 2025 final has, perhaps ironically, been less about dominance and more about an uncanny ability to navigate the precipice of elimination. The semi-final clash against Italy served as the latest, and arguably most emphatic, testament to their unyielding resilience and a tactical blueprint that, while heart-stopping, consistently delivers.
The Uncomfortable Habit of Slow Starts
For observers of Sarina Wiegman`s formidable England squad, a peculiar pattern has emerged in knockout football: a penchant for falling behind before staging a dramatic recovery. The semi-final against Italy was no exception. Despite being the reigning Euro champions and a global powerhouse, England found themselves trailing an inspired Italian side, who, in their first Euro semi-final since 1997, demonstrated a remarkable lack of deference to their higher-ranked opponents.
Twenty-three minutes into the game, veteran Barbara Bonansea breached England`s defense, exposing cracks that have, on occasion, appeared in the Lionesses` backline. With Leah Williamson battling an ankle injury and Lucy Bronze facing stiff challenges, Italy`s swift counterattacks created palpable discomfort. By halftime, England was not only a goal down but had also failed to register a meaningful offensive threat. This narrative felt eerily familiar, echoing earlier deficits against Sweden in the quarter-finals and France in the opening match – a consistent theme that might lead one to believe the Lionesses simply prefer a more circuitous route to victory, just for the sheer spectacle.
Sarina Wiegman: The Architect of Late Drama
Head coach Sarina Wiegman has, at times, faced scrutiny for what some perceive as a reluctance to rotate her starting eleven or make timely substitutions. Yet, the outcome of these high-stakes encounters often paints a different picture: one of a coach whose calculated patience (or perhaps, a delightful disregard for early-game comfort) allows her late adjustments to consistently pay dividends.
Against Italy, even with an early forced substitution due to Lauren James` ankle injury, Wiegman maintained her characteristic composure. Her post-match comments, emphasizing that her substitutes are “just ready to go” and “want to have a contribution,” underscore a philosophy rooted in collective readiness. The strategy is clear: “We never give up… we sub to win. We had to, because we were one-nil down. Sub to win, and we played to win.” It is a testament to her meticulous planning that even under intense pressure, her bench players are not just reserves, but pivotal game-changers.
The Emergence of Unsung Heroes
The semi-final`s turning point was etched by two distinct, yet equally heroic, performances from players introduced late into the fray. The first belonged to 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, a name rapidly becoming synonymous with decisive moments. Her 85th-minute equalizer, a quick reaction to a rebound in the box, was not just a goal; it was the definitive blow to Italy`s Cinderella story, extinguishing their dreams of a final appearance. Agyemang, who four years ago was a ball girl for some of these very players, has now delivered back-to-back equalizers in knockout games, transforming from a promising talent into a potential national icon. Her humility and gratitude (“It means the world to me and I`m so grateful… Most of these girls I haven`t known for more than two months, but it shows the togetherness we have as a team”) speak volumes about the Lionesses` cohesive spirit.
The second act of heroism was penned by Chloe Kelly, a player already etched into England`s footballing folklore for her Euro 2022 final-winning goal. Tasked with an extra-time penalty that could seal England`s fate, Kelly stepped up. Though the initial shot was saved by Italy`s Laura Giuliani, Kelly`s astute follow-up, slotting the rebound over the line, showcased not just technical proficiency but an indomitable will to win. It was a full-circle moment for a player who embodies the Lionesses` ability to deliver when it matters most, irrespective of the dramatic twists and turns required.
The “Proper England” Escape Act: A New Identity?
The repeated late comebacks and thrilling escapes are not merely coincidental; they appear to be forming a part of England`s tournament DNA. While some might label it as “playing with fire,” others could argue it`s a profound display of character, tactical depth, and an unshakeable belief in their collective ability to outlast any opponent. It`s an affirmation that success in tournament football isn`t solely about flawless skill, but also about the ebb and flow of momentum, the subtle intervention of fortune, and, crucially, an unyielding fighting spirit.
The Road Ahead: A Final Showdown
For Italy, the semi-final defeat marked the conclusion of an extraordinary journey, a testament to their progress under Andrea Soncin. They outperformed expectations, proving that global rankings are merely a starting point when heart and determination take the field.
For England, however, the mission continues. Their victory secures a remarkable third consecutive major final appearance, following Euro 2022 and the 2023 World Cup. The ultimate challenge awaits, as they prepare to face either the reigning World Cup champions, Spain, or a resurgent Germany. Whichever opponent emerges, England`s journey so far has proven one thing unequivocally: they may not always start strong, but they possess an almost supernatural ability to finish stronger, embracing the drama as part of their champion`s narrative.