In a night of high drama at Wembley Stadium, England triumphed over Italy in a pulsating Euro 2025 semi-final clash, securing their place in the tournament's final with a performance that blended resilience and attacking verve.
The Three Lions, roared on by a fervent home crowd, overcame their Italian counterparts in a match that ebbed and flowed from the first whistle to the last. Both sides created chances, but it was England who showed the greater composure when it mattered most.
First Half: Cautious Start Gives Way to Fireworks
The opening exchanges saw both teams probing cautiously, aware of the stakes at hand. Italy's famed defensive organisation was evident early on, while England looked to exploit the pace of their wingers in transition.
The deadlock was broken just before halftime when England's talismanic striker capitalised on a defensive error to slot home coolly, sending the Wembley faithful into raptures.
Second Half: Italy Respond but England Hold Firm
Italy emerged from the interval with renewed purpose and equalised through a well-worked team move that sliced open the English defence. For a brief period, the momentum seemed to have shifted decisively in the Azzurri's favour.
However, England's response was immediate and emphatic. A thunderous strike from outside the box restored their lead, before a late third goal on the counterattack sealed the historic victory.
Key Moments That Decided the Tie
- 35th minute: England take the lead against the run of play
- 58th minute: Italy equalise with a beautifully constructed goal
- 63rd minute: England regain the lead with a spectacular long-range effort
- 89th minute: The Three Lions put the result beyond doubt with a clinical breakaway goal
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations across the stadium as England's players and fans alike revelled in their team's achievement. Manager Gareth Southgate praised his squad's character, saying: "This was a proper test against an excellent side, and the lads stood up to be counted when it mattered."
Attention now turns to Sunday's final where England will face either Spain or France in what promises to be a fitting climax to an unforgettable tournament.
