The Euro 2025 tournament is set for the final showdown, recalling their previous clash in the 2023 World Cup final, where England triumphed over Spain. Both squads faced significant challenges to reach this stage, particularly in the semi-finals.
Defending champions England had to battle hard, requiring a late equalizer at 96 minutes and a penalty at 118 minutes during extra time to defeat Italy. Spain, on the other hand, also endured extra time against Germany, advancing thanks to a stunning goal by Baron de or winner Aitana Bonmati.
Journalists Emily Keow, Tom Hamilton, Beth Lindop, Julian Lawrence, and Sam Marsden covered the tournament, offering their insights on the semi-final performances.
What stood out to you in the semi-finals?
Hamilton: It’s hard to say what football gods are aiding England at Euro 2025, but their luck seems quite unusual. They had multiple near misses against Sweden and were on the brink of elimination against Italy until substitutes Chloe Kelly and Michel Agyemang changed the game. Agyemang, just 19, made a significant impact with her late equalizer, demonstrating impressive maturity on the field. Coach Sarina Wiegman is carefully nurturing England’s young talent.
Keo: The necessity for both semi-finals to go into extra time showcases the tactical prowess of these teams. Spain and England played similarly, as both struggled to find effective attacking routes against well-prepared opponents. This adaptability is part of why they’ve secured their places in the finals, reflecting wider trends in international football where no team can coast to victory anymore.
Lindop: Both England and Spain have not played at their best this summer, even as they reach another major final. England was fortunate to advance past Italy, while Spain relied on Aitana Bonmati’s late magic to get through Germany. Nevertheless, both teams exhibit resilience and the ability to win under pressure.
Lawrence: Bonmati’s brilliance in these crucial moments stands out. Although it’s a well-known fact, significant games often belong to the stars. She showcased her world-class skill against Germany, demonstrating exceptional intelligence and technique. Her ability to score has been critical throughout the tournament.
Marsden: The impact of Bonmati was significant, but I was also impressed by Patri Guijarro’s all-around performance as a midfielder for Spain. Credit also goes to Germany; despite my earlier critiques, they showed resilience against strong teams like France and Spain.
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Should Kelly & Agyemang start for England in the Euro 2025 Final?
The football panel will discuss whether Chloe Kelly and Michelle Agyemang should be part of England’s starting lineup in the final.
What makes Spain so formidable, and what does their future hold?
Lawrence: Spain’s mix of individual talent and teamwork, along with their fluid play style, sets them apart. They operate smoothly within a 4-3-3 formation, making them formidable with the ball. Unlike others, their threats can come from anywhere on the pitch. The average age of Spain’s starters suggests they have the potential for sustaining success through to the 2027 World Cup.
Marsden: Their identity and skills are unmatched. Spain has a distinct playing philosophy, evident across their women’s and men’s teams. They excel in executing their attacking plan while also being prepared for tactical adjustments. The challenge will be integrating young talents like 18-year-old Vicky López into the squad.
– Keo, Marsden: Bonmati’s influence is spotlighted as Spain edges closer to Germany – just
– Hamilton, Kague: England’s late-game heroics stun Italy, securing a spot in the final.
Hamilton: Their adaptability is key. In their match against Germany, they played a patient game, even changing their strategy early on. Players like Putellas and Bonmati have been groomed for success since 2015, thanks to the Barcelona Academy, illustrating a long-term vision for their development.
Keo: Spain’s players possess the composure of champions. During their match against Germany, they remained composed under pressure, showcasing their ability to counter-attack adeptly. Star players stepping up in critical moments underlines their winning mentality, making them a formidable opponent for England.
Lindop: Two words: Aitana Bonmatí. While the Spanish squad is filled with talent, Bonmatí’s brilliance gives them an edge. Her health and performance will be pivotal if Spain aims to maintain their dominance on the international stage.
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Italian Girelli expresses her heartbreak after the semi-final defeat.
Cristiana Girelli is emotional in the mixed zone following Italy’s loss to England in the semi-finals.
What did we learn about Italy’s performance in this tournament?
Hamilton: Italy’s journey has been commendable. Their strong showing against Spain in the group stage was particularly notable. Against Norway in the quarter-finals, their tactical discipline was evident, and they held their own against England, coming so close to the final. Despite having an aging squad, they haven’t lost their competitiveness; veteran Cristiana Girelli shone, supported by stars like Sofia Cantore and Barbara Bonansea. This could mark a turning point for Italy’s women’s soccer.
Lindop: A personal highlight came after Italy’s quarter-final victory over Norway, showcasing how far their women’s football has come. Players like Girelli have worked hard for this recognition, and the team’s tenacity demonstrates that, with proper investment, they could be a significant force in the future.
Lawrence: Collectively, Italy showcased impressive teamwork. While they may lack individual flair compared to other teams, their tactical awareness helped them compete. Yet, in crucial moments against England, they struggled to replicate their successful plays and defaulted to a defensive stance. Moving forward, they need to enhance their attack and foster new younger talents.
Marsden: Reaching the semi-finals is a significant milestone for Italy, and it could serve as a spark for further growth in this soccer-obsessed nation. However, it’s important to note they were expected to advance past Portugal and Belgium in Group B, and while their victory against Norway was memorable, they still face challenges ahead.
Keo: This tournament displayed that any team could be defeated at any time, highlighting the competitive nature of women’s soccer. Italy stands as a testament to how quickly the landscape is shifting, and their enthusiastic play adds a refreshing element to the sport.
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Keogh emphasizes how every team is beatable at Euro 2025.
Emily Keo reflects on the intense competition at Euro 2025 following Spain’s victory over Switzerland.
Would the Euro be a better competition with more than 16 teams?
Keo: As the competition has progressed, the gap has narrowed, making the tournament thrilling and unpredictable. Euro 2025 has been one of the most exhilarating tournaments yet, but expanding too quickly could sacrifice quality. Although there are numerous teams outside the top 20 in Europe, the drop-off in performance is significant. We must first tackle the issue of player fatigue and calendar constraints before considering any expansion.
Lawrence: I don’t see a need for expansion. Euro 2025 has proven to be a compelling tournament just as it is, with plenty of drama, quality, and surprises without requiring more teams.
Lindop: If we can develop more competitive nations, it might be beneficial, but right now, the disparity in quality between the top countries and others is still substantial, and it will take time for the sport to grow.
Hamilton: Balancing growth with the excitement of the current format is crucial. While more teams could gain valuable experience, we also risk diluting the quality of the tournament. The drama and high stakes we’ve witnessed this summer should be kept intact.
Marsden: Although I appreciate the current 16-team format, I could see a well-run 24-team tournament. The addition of teams might not drastically lower quality, and it could enhance the development of countries currently on the cusp of qualification. But mostly, I am a fan of knockout football and would welcome more thrilling matches!
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This news matters to soccer fans as it highlights the evolving dynamics of international women’s football, showcasing how competitive the sport has become. The ongoing adjustments in tactics and team development suggest that future tournaments will be increasingly unpredictable and exciting, potentially raising the profile of women’s soccer on a global scale.
