England produced yet more late drama at Euro 2025 as they kept their hopes of back-to-back European Championship successes alive with a spectacular 2-1 semi-final victory over Italy after extra-time.
The Lionesses looked to be heading for the exit door after Barbara Bonansea’s 33rd-minute goal, as Sarina Wiegman’s side struggled to break down Italy’s stubborn defence.
However, Wiegman’s super subs struck again!
Michelle Agyemang, just as she did against Sweden in the quarter-finals, struck in the sixth of seven minutes of added time to rescue England and send the game into extra-time.
Michelle Agyemang celebrates her stoppage-time equaliser for England against Italy to force extra-time in Euro 2025 semi-final
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Sue Smith’s animated reaction after Michelle Agyemang’s equaliser vs Italy
Then, with penalties looming, Chloe Kelly had the chance to send England to a third straight major tournament final from the penalty spot after Beth Mead was bundled over by Emma Severini in the penalty area.
In pure Lionesses fashion, even this wasn’t straightforward as goalkeeper Laura Giuliani saved Kelly’s initial penalty, but the Arsenal forward stayed cool to emphatically bury the rebound as England booked their place in Sunday’s final where they will face either Spain or Germany.
Chloe Kelly celebrates her extra-time winner for England against Italy in Euro 2025 semi-final
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Sue Smith was left joyous as Chloe Kelly sent England to the Euro 2025 final
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Kelly: Lionesses want more success
England match winner Chloe Kelly to ITV:
“Unbelievable, such a great feeling.
“This team deserved nothing but that. Three finals on the bounce and we want more, this is an unbelievable feeling.
“It weren’t supposed to go like that, that penalty, but I was ready for the rebound and ready for any opportunity given to me wearing an England badge.
“I was confident but obviously the keeper had done her homework. Luckily I got there for the tap-in.”
On fellow substitute Agyemang, Kelly added: “Big Mich at it again.
“She’s unbelievable and she should have scored again: that one that hit the crossbar.
“She’s an unbelievable player and she’s got the world at her feet, a young player with a bright future and I’m absolutely buzzing for her.
“But this team shows resilience again and we fight back. Hopefully we can make it a little bit easier for ourselves – we don’t need that panic.”