England Women Secure Euro 2025 Final Spot With Dramatic Comeback Against Italy

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Sarina Wiegman envisions a future film about her England team after their thrilling victory to reach the Euro 2025 final. The Lionesses overcame Italy 2-1 in extra time, with substitutes Michelle Agyemang and Chloe Kelly securing the win. Barbara Bonansea initially put Italy ahead in the 33rd minute, but Agyemang equalised deep into injury time. Kelly then clinched the victory in the 119th minute after her penalty was saved.

England's journey to the final has been remarkable under Wiegman's leadership. Since taking charge in 2021, she has guided the team to three consecutive major tournament finals. This achievement places England alongside Germany and Norway as the only teams to do so. "We’re going to make a movie someday! Well, this is a movie," Wiegman expressed to BBC Radio 5 Live.

The Lionesses have made history by becoming the first team to advance from both the quarter-final and semi-final of a single Women's Euros edition after conceding first. In their quarter-final match against Sweden, they came back from two goals down to draw before winning on penalties. Italy posed a tough challenge, defending resolutely and slowing down play.

Wiegman praised her team's resilience and determination, which she believes will be crucial for retaining their title in Switzerland. "We’ve seen so many different England teams now, and we never give up," she told ITV Sport. Despite some luck against Sweden in penalties, Wiegman emphasised that taking risks has been rewarding for her team.

For Italy and coach Andrea Soncin, it was a bittersweet end to an impressive campaign as they reached their first Euros semi-final since 1997. Agyemang's late equaliser was England's latest goal on record at the Women's Euros since 2013, excluding extra time. Kelly's decisive strike set a new record for the latest goal scored in any edition of the competition.

After full-time, Italian players were visibly emotional on the pitch. Soncin praised his squad for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament despite their disappointment. "This defeat hurts but we are proud," he stated. He also questioned whether England’s late penalty decision was justified after Emma Severini fouled Beth Mead.

Wiegman's tenure with England has been marked by significant success with her reaching her hundredth win as an international manager during this match (D21 L20), including 48 victories with England alone.