England will look to return to the Women’s Euro 2025 final as they take on dark horses Italy in the semi-finals in Geneva.
The Lionesses fought from two goals down and survived a penalty shoot-out to defeat Sweden in the quarter-finals.
Sarina Wiegman’s side looked to be on their way home but Chloe Kelly helped change the game from the bench and Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton were the heroes to help the holders over the line.
Italy scored a last-minute goal to defeat Norway in the quarter-finals and are playing in their first Euros semi-final since 1997 – and England’s first-half performance could have given them plenty of encouragement.
The Lionesses have reached a sixth consecutive semi-final and are looking to make it through to a third tournament final in a row after Euro 2022 and the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where either Spain or Germany will be waiting in Basel.
Here’s everything you need to know.
How can I watch England vs Italy?
England v Italy will be on ITV 1 and ITV X, with build-up starting from 7pm.
When is England vs Italy?
The Euro 2025 semi-final takes place on Tuesday 22 July, with kick-off at 8pm UK time (BST) in Geneva.
What is the England team news?
Leah Williamson has recovered from an ankle injury to captain England in their Euro 2025 semi-final. Lucy Bronze and Lauren James are also fit, but there is one change from the side that started the quarter-final against Sweden.
Sarina Wiegman said Jess Carter was “ready to perform” after she revealed the received racist abuse she has received throughout Euro 2025, but Esme Morgan starts alongside Williamson with Alex Greenwood set to continue at left-back. Carter is on the bench.
England XI: Hampton; Bronze, Morgan, Williamson, Greenwood; Walsh, Stanway, Toone; James, Russo, Hemp
What is the Italy team news?
The 35-year-old Cristiana Girelli has inspired Italy at the Euros and has scored three goals, including two against in the quarter-final win over Norway. Italy can switch between a 3-4-3 with wing-backs or a 4-3-3 with wide forwards and their strengths lie in the middle of the pitch, with the technical ability and movement of Manuela Giugliano and Ariana Caruso. They can be a danger to England and do not have any reported injury concerns or suspensions before the semi-final. Italy also make one change as Martina Lenzini replaces Emma Severini.
Italy XI: Giuliani; Lenzini, Salvai, Linari, Di Guglielmo; Bonansea, Giugliano, Caruso; Oliviero, Girelli, Cantore
What has the England camp said?
Sarina Wiegman: “It would be really disrespectful to think we are the favourites. They made the semi-final just like we did and that’s very impressive for any team. Complacency is the biggest mistake you could make. You have seen them how they have played. I don’t think there is anything we can think that we might be the favourite, but we have to be at our very best to win the game.”
What has the Italy camp said?
Italy manager Andrea Soncin: “The historical importance of this game is known to everyone. We want to reach the final, make our dream come true. It is an important match because it is an important step on our journey. We are convinced that we have the weapons to win the game, and we have the utmost respect for the quality of the English players and their international experience.”
Euro 2025 results and route to final
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