Euro 2025 semi-final build-up: Fans gather in Geneva before England v Italy

How did Italy reach the semi-finals?published at 12:44 British Summer Time

England v Italy (20:00 BST)

Alex Brotherton
BBC Sport journalist

If the expectations were that defending champions England would reach at least the semi-finals, the same cannot be said of opponents Italy.

Italy, who are the lowest ranked side left in the tournament, progressed to the knockouts by finishing second in Group B behind world champions Spain.

Their campaign began with a 1-0 win against Belgium, before conceding an 89th minute equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Portugal.

A 3-1 defeat by Spain on matchday three mattered little because Portugal failed to beat Belgium.

Italy were the better side for much of their quarter-final against favourites Norway, and spurned several chances before captain Cristiana Girelli broke the deadlock in the 50th minute.

Ada Hegerberg equalised for Norway moments after missing a penalty, but Girelli headed home a dramatic stoppage-time winner for a historic victory for the Italians.

Media caption,

Cristiana Girelli scores late winner for Italy against Norway.


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