England Reach Euro 2025 Final After Dramatic Extra-Time Win Over Italy

In a night of high drama at the Stade de Genève, England's Lionesses produced another remarkable comeback to defeat Italy 2-1 after extra time and book their place in the Euro 2025 final.

The match, played before a crowd of 26,539, saw England recover from a first-half deficit to secure victory with virtually the last kick of the game. Teenage substitute Michelle Agyemang equalised in the 96th minute before Chloe Kelly struck the winner in the 119th minute of extra time.

Chloe Kelly's goal was timed at 118 minutes and 53 seconds, you have to credit the mentality, desire, the resilience of this team.

First Half: Italy Take Surprise Lead

Italy shocked the holders when Barbara Bonansea capitalised on defensive uncertainty to fire past Hannah Hampton in the 33rd minute. The Azzurre, who hadn't reached a European final since 1997, defended resolutely to take their lead into half-time.

Second Half: Agyemang Saves England

England manager Sarina Wiegman made attacking changes, introducing Beth Mead at half-time and later bringing on Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The 19-year-old Agyemang, who has been England's super-sub throughout the tournament, delivered again with a composed finish deep into stoppage time to send the game to extra time.

Extra Time: Kelly the Hero

With penalties looming, England were awarded a dramatic penalty in the 117th minute when Beth Mead was fouled. Kelly's initial spot-kick was saved by Laura Giuliani, but the Manchester City forward reacted quickest to smash home the rebound and send England through to their third consecutive major tournament final.

Post-Match Reactions

England manager Sarina Wiegman said: "I'm so proud of the team's character. We never give up and that mentality got us through tonight."

Match winner Chloe Kelly added: "It's an unbelievable feeling. When the penalty was saved I just focused on following it in. This team has so much belief."

Italy coach Andrea Soncin praised his players: "We gave everything but England's quality told in the end. We can be proud of our tournament."

Looking Ahead

England will face the winner of Wednesday's semi-final between Germany and Spain in Sunday's final in Basel (17:00 BST kick-off). The Lionesses are now just one win away from retaining their European crown and completing an unprecedented hat-trick of major tournament victories under Wiegman.

United Kingdom | Football,Euro 2025 | | slashnews.co.uk