By Marta Elena Casanova
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Index
Semi-finals approaching at the Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland. At this point, it’s no longer a coincidence. Italy is among the top four teams in Europe—and they’ve earned it. They defeated a more experienced and higher-ranked Norway side with grit and heart. The quarter-finals of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 are now complete, and among the giants like England, Germany and Spain, the Azzurre led by Andrea Soncin have claimed their place. Just three years ago, this would have seemed impossible—when Italian women’s football was only beginning its professional era. But now, on Tuesday 22 July in Geneva, Italy will face reigning champions England for a place in the final.
The Quarter-Finals:
Played between 16 and 19 July, the quarter-finals delivered drama, surprises, and confirmations. Italy kicked things off with a thrilling 2–1 win over Norway. Once again, the hero was 34-year-old Cristiana Girelli, who scored both goals and showed the leadership of a true champion. After a slow start to the tournament, the Juventus striker has become the face of a compact, resilient team that knows how to suffer—and how to win. Her 90th-minute winner unleashed a wave of celebration—not just among teammates, but across a nation gradually awakening to the brilliance of this side.
The following day, England played one of the most intense matches of the tournament. Down 2–0 against Sweden, the Lionesses fought back in the final minutes and won on penalties thanks to goalkeeper Hannah Hampton’s heroics. This is their second consecutive Euro semi-final under Sarina Wiegman—the true “Alex Ferguson” of women’s football in Europe. Since 2017, she hasn’t missed a single semi-final in either Euros or World Cups.
Meanwhile, Spain defeated Switzerland 2–0, once again proving they are the most dominant team in the tournament. Possession-based play, technical brilliance, and goals from all over the pitch—the reigning world champions seem to be in a league of their own. The same can’t be said for France, who were knocked out on penalties by Germany after a 1–1 draw. The Germans, eight-time European champions, remain the most successful team still standing—but they look physically more worn down.
The Semifinals: Italy vs England, Germany vs Spain
Italy vs England:
On Tuesday, Italy will face England for a spot in the final. On paper, the gap is massive: a decades-old professional system versus one that began only in 2022; stars like Rose Lavelle and Lauren James against Galli and Giacinti. But the pitch tells a different tale. Italy has kept two clean sheets, always scores in the second half, and has found technical leaders in Girelli and Greggi. The pressure will be entirely on England, expected to win—while the Azzurre can play freely, with nothing to lose.
Germany vs Spain
On Wednesday 23 July, Germany and Spain will meet in a true European classic. Germany brings tradition and experience; Spain represents the future. The Red Fury are clear favourites, having scored 16 goals in five games and dominated in possession and chances created. Still, Germany is a clinical side—and if they can hold physically, they will be in with a shot.
Who will win Euro 2025?
According to bookmakers and analysts, Spain are the top favourites to lift the trophy. England and Germany follow, with Italy as the underdog. But in women’s football, gaps can be bridged with organisation, spirit, and identity—all of which Italy is showing in this tournament.
If it’s Spain vs England in the final, we’ll see a generational clash between possession and power. But if Italy makes it—this could be the story of the year. And perhaps, the true rebirth of Italian women’s football.
By Marta Elena Casanova
