In a thrilling quarter-final clash at the 2025 Women’s European Championship, England secured a dramatic comeback victory over Sweden, booking their place in the semi-finals after a tense penalty shootout. The Lionesses, who fell behind by two goals in the first half, rallied to force extra time before triumphing 3-2 on penalties, capping a match marked by rapid momentum shifts and high stakes.
Sweden dominated early, with experienced midfielder Kosovare Asllani opening the scoring in the 28th minute. Striker Stina Blackstenius doubled their advantage just before halftime, leaving England facing an uphill battle. However, the second half saw a stunning turnaround as defender Lucy Bronze halved the deficit moments after the restart. Within two minutes, 21-year-old forward Michelle Agyemang leveled the score with a composed finish, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Despite sustained pressure from both sides in extra time, neither team broke the deadlock, setting the stage for a penalty shootout. England’s goalkeeper, Mary Earps, emerged as a decisive figure, saving two spot kicks, while her teammates held their nerve to convert three of four attempts. The 3-2 shootout victory sent the reigning European champions into the final four, where they will face Italy on Tuesday.
Italy secured their semi-final berth earlier in the day with a 2-1 win over Norway, courtesy of goals from Barbara Bonansea and midfielder Giulia Dragoni. The Azzurre, runners-up in the 2022 tournament, are expected to present a formidable challenge as England seeks to defend its title.
The match underscored the resilience of Sarina Wiegman’s squad, which has now reached the semi-finals in three consecutive major tournaments under her leadership. The Dutch coach praised her team’s composure, particularly noting the impact of Agyemang, whose second-half goal marked her first competitive strike for the senior team. Sweden’s coach, Peter Gerhardsson, acknowledged his side’s missed opportunities but commended their effort in a “finely balanced contest.”
With the semi-finals set, attention turns to England’s clash with Italy, a rematch of the 2022 group stage encounter that ended in a 1-1 draw. The winner will advance to the final in Basel, Switzerland, on July 20, where either host nation Switzerland or Germany awaits. As the tournament approaches its climax, England’s dramatic resurgence against Sweden has reaffirmed their status as contenders, while underscoring the unpredictable drama of knockout football.
