3 days ago
England vs Italy – Preview & Score Prediction
Reigning champions England take on Italy today in the first semi-final of UEFA Women's Euro 2025. Kick-off is at 8 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1) in Stade de Geneve.
England come into the tie as favourites but needed penalties to edge past Sweden in the quarter-finals, drawing 2-2 in regulation time after coming from two goals down. They eventually won the shootout 3-2 after seven rounds.
Italy, meanwhile, are enjoying a landmark tournament. Their 2-1 win over Norway in the last round was their first knockout victory at the Euros since 1997.
The winner will face either Spain or Germany in Sunday's final.
England beat Italy 5-1 in a friendly in February 2024, with goals from Wubben-Moy, Hemp (2), Toone and Daly. Cambiaghi scored Italy's only goal.
England captain Leah Williamson is available despite injury concerns. Off the pitch, England have spoken out strongly against racist abuse aimed at defender Jess Carter.
'We feel like it has gone past [taking the knee] now,' said Georgia Stanway. 'We want to tell people that what is being done isn't enough.'
Manager Sarina Wiegman and players have urged tech companies to do more to tackle abuse.
Italy captain Cristiana Girelli acknowledged their underdog status but struck a defiant tone.
'On paper, we might be [underdogs],' she said. 'But football is decided on the pitch, not on paper.'
Girelli praised manager Andrea Soncin for instilling belief and clarity since taking charge post-World Cup.
'He gives us motivation, lets us express ourselves, and made us realise that everyone has their time,' she said.
Soncin added: 'England are direct. They attack space well. But we're confident we have what it takes.'
Predicted line-ups:
England: Hampton; Bronze, Williamson, Carter, Greenwood; Walsh, Stanway, Toone; James, Hemp, Russo
Italy: Giuliani; Oliviero, Salvai, Linari, Di Guglielmo; Caruso, Giugliano, Severini; Cantore, Girelli, Bonansea
Prediction:
The Lionesses to prove too clinical, despite Italy's spirited run.
England 3–1 Italy Tags: englandItalyWomen's Euro
