Semi-Final Showdowns: Spain and England Book Their Spots in EURO 2025 Final

The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 semi-finals delivered everything fans love about football – drama, passion, and unforgettable moments. England displayed remarkable character to claw their way back from the brink against Italy, while Spain edged out Germany in a tense, nail-biting clash. As both teams celebrate their victories, all eyes now turn to what promises to be an electrifying final between two of Europe’s fiercest sides. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how both semi-final battles unfolded.

Epic Showdown: England Edges Italy 

Yesterday, July 23, 2025, the Stade de Genève in Geneva hosted a thrilling UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 semi-final clash between Italy and England, ending with England securing a dramatic 2-1 victory in extra time. The match showcased resilience, late heroics, and a testament to the growing intensity of women’s football.

Italy, led by the seasoned Cristiana Girelli, started strongly, taking the lead in the 33rd minute through Barbara Bonansea’s precise strike. The Azzurre’s disciplined defense and tactical prowess, honed under coach Andrea Soncin, kept England at bay for much of the game. Girelli, at 35, continued to prove her worth, having been instrumental in Italy’s journey to their first semi-final since 1997 with a decisive double against Norway in the quarter-finals.

England, the defending champions, struggled initially, appearing lethargic and unable to break through Italy’s solid backline. However, the tide turned in the dying moments of normal time when 19-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang leveled the score with a stunning 96th-minute goal, marking her third in four caps and igniting hope for the Lionesses. The match extended into extra time, where Chloe Kelly, a hero from the 2022 final, sealed the win in the 119th minute. After missing a penalty, Kelly capitalized on the rebound, scoring the latest goal in Women’s EURO history to send England to their third consecutive major tournament final.

The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Italy’s fans and players celebrating prematurely after Bonansea’s goal, only to face heartbreak as England’s bench strength turned the tide. Sarina Wiegman’s tactical switch, bringing in fresh attackers, proved decisive, though her team’s inconsistent performance raised questions about their form. Italy’s exit, despite a valiant effort, leaves them proud but disappointed, having pushed the favorites to the limit.

Spain's Thrilling Victory over Germany 

This morning, at 10:15 AM AEST on July 24, 2025, the Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich witnessed a gripping UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 semi-final as Spain defeated Germany 1-0 in extra time, securing their spot in the final. The match, a battle between the reigning world champions and the eight-time European titleholders, showcased tactical brilliance and resilience.

Spain dominated possession throughout, leveraging their high-pressing game and intricate play in the final third. Despite Germany’s stout defense, led by goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger—who has made a tournament-high 23 saves—the breakthrough came in the 113th minute. Aitana Bonmatí, twice named the world’s best player, turned skillfully and fired a decisive shot past Berger, marking Spain’s first-ever victory over Germany in nine attempts.

Germany, hampered by their recent 10-player heroics against France, struggled to convert chances, with Klara Bühl’s late effort in normal time narrowly thwarted by Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll. The match highlighted Spain’s unbeaten run, having scored 16 goals in the tournament, while Germany’s depth was tested, ending their streak of seven consecutive semi-final progressions since 1993.

This win propels Spain to their first Women’s EURO final, where they will face England on Sunday in Basel. Germany’s exit, though disappointing, underscores the rising competitiveness of the tournament, with Spain’s youthful squad proving they are a force to be reckoned with.

What’s Next?

As the dust settles on the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 semi-finals, the stage is set for an unforgettable final between England and Spain in Basel this Sunday. The dramatic victories of England over Italy and Spain over Germany have highlighted the tournament’s fierce competition, with late goals and standout performances defining the outcomes. This semi-final phase has not only showcased the evolving talent and tenacity of women’s football but also set the scene for a historic showdown, promising to crown a deserving champion amid a surge of global inspiration.