Italy's Dream Run Set to Challenge England in Euro 2025 Semi-Final

Italy's Dream Run Set to Challenge England in Euro 2025 Semi-Final

Match: England vs Italy

Venue: Stade de Geneve, Geneva

Date: Tuesday, 22 July

Kick-off: 20:00 BST

Coverage: Live on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, with text commentary and video highlights on the BBC Sport website and app.

Before the commencement of Euro 2025, Italy's head coach Andrea Soncin was asked about his goalkeeper Laura Giuliani describing him as a "dreamer." Soncin embraced the term, stating, "While I'm very practical and grounded, I also like to dream. When I encourage the players to challenge and beat teams they might have thought unbeatable, it's because I believe they can."

"I don't know where we'll end up in this Euros, but I'm sure we'll be courageous and confident, and play every game to the best of our abilities. Let's see where that takes us," he added. Thus far, this belief has propelled Italy to the semi-finals for the first time in 28 years, living up to their pre-tournament reputation as dark horses.

On Tuesday, Italy will face defending champions England, seeking to cause a major upset and secure a spot in their first final since 1997. Who are their key players, and how might they challenge the Lionesses in Geneva?

'Iconic' Girelli Leading the Way

Central to Italy's impressive run is their captain, Cristiana Girelli, who has netted three goals in this tournament, including a double in the 2-1 victory over Norway in the quarter-finals. With 61 goals for her country, she ranks third on Italy's all-time scorers list, but her influence extends beyond statistics.

"She's so important," Italian football expert Nicky Bandini tells BBC Sport. "She's absolutely iconic. She has taken on the role of leader, being the one who has been there and seen it all before. She's a calm presence in a team not accustomed to major tournament situations."

The 35-year-old Juventus striker has been effectively supported by her former club teammate Sofia Cantore, who assisted both her goals in the quarter-final. "She's had such a strong tournament, and her connection with Girelli, honed at Juventus, is crucial," Bandini notes.

What Tactics Will Italy Employ?

Italy, who have not defeated England since 2012, appointed Soncin in September 2023 despite his previous experience being solely in men's football. However, he has gradually won over his critics.

"There was scepticism about Soncin due to his background, but he has brought something positive over the last couple of years," says Bandini. "The energy around the group is much better than in past tournaments."

In Switzerland, Italy finished second in their group behind tournament favorites Spain, demonstrating tactical flexibility and the ability to exploit opponents' weaknesses. "Against England, it will be a technically fascinating game," Bandini predicts. "Italy's ability to adjust tactics is a strength."

'If England Are Careless, They Could Be Punished'

While Italy reached the European Championship final in 1993 and 1997, the tournament then featured only four and eight teams respectively. Since then, support for women's football in Italy has lagged behind other European nations.

The Italian Football Federation committed to professionalizing the top division by the 2022-23 season, following the Azzurre's surprise quarter-final run at the 2019 World Cup. "Football is the first professional women's team sport in Italy, a major step forward," Bandini explains.

Though England are considered strong favorites due to their depth, Bandini believes Italy will capitalize on any mistakes. "Italy have shown they can perform even against technically superior teams. If England are not at their best, Italy could punish them," she warns.

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