Defending champions England have once again displayed their resilience with a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Italy in extra time during the semi-finals of the Women’s Euros. The Lionesses were on the verge of elimination as they trailed 1-0 with less than a minute remaining in the game at the Stade de Geneve in Switzerland. However, 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang’s last-minute equalizer in the 96th minute forced the game into extra time. England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton’s exceptional double save had kept her team in contention just moments before Agyemang’s crucial goal.
Italy had dominated much of the match following Barbara Bonansea’s 33rd-minute goal, but England regained momentum in extra time as they pushed for a winning goal. The deciding moment came when Beth Mead was fouled in the penalty area in the 116th minute, leading to a penalty for the Lionesses. Despite Chloe Kelly initially having her spot kick saved, she followed up with the rebound to secure the victory.
The drama of this match surpassed even England’s quarter-finals triumph, where they fought back from a 2-0 deficit to equalize and eventually defeat Sweden on penalties, with Agyemang scoring the crucial equalizer in the 81st minute. With this win, England has secured a place in their third consecutive major final and will face the winners of the upcoming semi-final between Spain and Germany at St Jakob-Park in Basel.
Reflecting on past final matches, the Lionesses suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final of the Women’s World Cup in Sydney in 2023. However, they had previously emerged victorious against Germany in the final of Euro 2022, with Kelly scoring an extra-time winner.
Once again, England’s success was aided by impactful substitutions from the bench. Agyemang and Kelly, who entered the game late, proved to be game-changers in both the semi-final and quarter-final matches. Kelly’s assist for England’s first goal in the semi-final, followed by Agyemang’s subsequent equalizer, showcased the impact of these super-subs.
Looking ahead to the final, England manager Sarina Wiegman faces a selection dilemma as some regular starters have accumulated significant playing time in back-to-back extra-time matches. Agyemang and Kelly have certainly made a strong case for inclusion in the starting lineup for the final showdown. The Lionesses will need to carefully consider their options to ensure they are at their best for the upcoming championship match.
SOURCE