England’s quest for a second consecutive Women’s European Championship title remains alive after a 2-1 victory over Italy in a semifinal that went into extra time. Defending champions England showed remarkable resilience as Chloe Kelly scored the decisive goal in the 119th minute, sealing their place in Sunday’s final in Basel.
England’s Heroic Comeback
Italy took the lead in the 33rd minute with a stunning volley from Barbara Bonansea. Despite heavy pressure from England, Italy’s defense held firm, with central backs Elena Linari and Cecilia Salvai leading the charge.
However, in stoppage time, Michelle Agyemang equalized after Italy goalkeeper Laura Giuliani spilled a cross. Agyemang fired a low shot through the legs of both Giuliani and Linari, leveling the score.
“I think that gave us a new lease of energy,” said Kelly, whose later heroics delivered the win. “When your forward is doing that, it’s special.”
Kelly’s Rebound Heroics
Kelly’s penalty was saved, but she reacted quickly to score the rebound in the 119th minute, securing England’s dramatic victory.
“When it finishes like this I am enjoying it but it’s a little bit dramatic,” said England coach Sarina Wiegman. Wiegman, undefeated in this tournament, is on track to defend her title after leading the Netherlands to victory in 2017.
A Tough Journey to the Final
England’s path to the final wasn’t easy. The team started with a 2-1 loss to France, marking Wiegman’s first-ever defeat in the Women’s Euros. They rebounded with dominant wins over the Netherlands and Wales, scoring 10 goals in total.
In their quarterfinal against Sweden, England found themselves trailing 2-0 with just 12 minutes left in regulation. They forced a penalty shootout, where Sweden missed crucial spot-kicks to allow England to advance.
Michelle Agyemang, at just 19, has been a revelation. Her equalizer against Italy was her second in the knockout rounds, and her rise from ball girl to star has captivated fans.
England’s Battle for Glory in Basel
With this win, England advances to the final in Basel, where they will face either Spain or Germany. This will be a rematch for England, who won the Euro 2022 final against Germany with a Kelly extra-time goal. However, they lost to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final, making this upcoming clash significant.
“We have to be proud,” said Italy coach Andrea Soncin after the heartbreaking loss. Despite their valiant effort, Italy came just one minute away from the final.
England’s Unity and Resilience
After the final whistle, England’s victory symbolized their unity. Jess Carter, who had been the target of racist abuse online, came on for the final minutes to help defend England’s lead. Fans greeted her with a rousing cheer.
Kelly said, “Victory after the team united behind Carter was a powerful moment to show this is what we expect.”
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