England vs Italy: Euro 2025 Semifinal Clash Set for High Stakes and Heavy Action

The current titleholders in Europe, England face Italy in the opening UEFA Women's Euro 2025 semifinals today in Stade de Genève, Switzerland. England reached the tournament with a lot of expectation resting on their shoulders. England secured a second position in a very challenging Group D after reversing an opening narrow defeat, 2-1, to France with huge wins (4-0 over the Netherlands and 6-1 over Wales), qualifying for the elimination phase.

Road to the Semifinals

In the quarterfinals, the Lionesses' never-say-die attitude revealed itself in exhilarating fashion when, with more than ten minutes of the game in possession, they converted a 2-0 down disadvantage into a lead and, after a penalty shootout, ultimately beat Sweden in a seven-round contest, 3-2. It marked the first time in the history of Women's Euro that a team had converted a two-goal disadvantage in a knockout game, a testament to England's never-say-die attitude and depth.

Italy, on the other hand, were the fairy tale side in the Euro 2025. The Azzurre are through the first semis in Europe in 28 years after being in semis in 1997, there through grind games. They were second behind Spain in Group B, with a 1-0 win over Belgium, a point each with Portugal, and a defeat away to Spain in a 3-1 aggregate.

Despite only a modest group record, Italy grew in confidence in the knockouts. In the quarterfinals, they stunned pre-tournament dark horse Norway 2-1. Veteran striker Cristiana Girelli scored both goals, including a 90th-minute header to clinch Italy's first Euro knockout victory since 1997. Italy showed composure and clutch gene in that match; notably, they have scored the opening goal in all four of their games at this tournament, often starting fast, even as underdogs.

Their mantra that "the best is still unwritten" has propelled them to this unexpected semifinal meeting with England.

Odds and Betting Outlook

Oddsmakers made England the solid favorite in a move towards the finals. At DraftKings, England are priced roughly -200 on the moneyline in a regular-season victory, in relative alignment with their being the stronger team on paper. Italy, on the other hand, are priced at +500.

The draw after 90 minutes is listed around +340, indicating a smaller probability, but not out of the question if Italy can slow the game down. England have largely justified their favorite status so far, scoring in bunches against weaker opposition and demonstrating clutch resilience against Sweden.

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Bettors backing England will point to their prolific offense (over 3 goals per game on average in this tournament) and big-match experience. Those considering Italy at long odds will be hoping that Italy's self-belief and knack for early goals can put the pressure on England and perhaps force another extra-time scenario.

Goals markets are also of interest, given the contrast in styles. England's matches have tended to be high-scoring (three of their four games had four or more total goals), while Italy typically prefer a tighter contest (Italy have not scored more than two in any game and generally keep scores close). s

Key Players and Form Guide

England's victory is in a robust attack and squad depth. England have scored 13 times in four games with shots from all corners of the park. Forward Lauren James has particularly impressed for England with a double in the group phase when England played the Netherlands, among other instances, showcasing a consistent goal threat.

Playmaker Ella Toone also made an impact, scoring twice and adding assists. Team leader Leah Williamson takes care of defense, and set-piece expert Georgia Stanway offers solidity in midfield (and converted a penalty goal against Wales).

In the quarterfinal, England's experienced right-back Lucy Bronze sparked the comeback by scoring a header, and 18-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang scored the equalizer minutes later.

Italy's campaign has been characterized by tight games and heroic individual efforts. They have scored five goals in total – three of them by their talismanic captain Cristiana Girelli. The 35-year-old forward is in exceptional form, having also scored a long-range stunner in the group stage.

Girelli's chemistry with winger Sofia Cantore has been a driving force for Italy's attack; Cantore provided the assist for both of Girelli's goals against Norway and consistently threatens defenses with her crosses. Italy's supporting cast includes creative midfielder Manuela Giugliano and veteran winger Barbara Bonansea (who returned from injury during the tournament).

While Italy have not been as free-scoring as England, they have shown efficiency and tenacity — notably converting early chances and then defending resolutely. Their defense, led by center-back Elena Linari and goalkeeper Laura Giuliani, has had shaky moments (they've conceded six goals, including three against a strong Spain side), but they did well to contain Norway's high-powered attack for long stretches.

Prediction

Everything on paper favors England to reach their second straight European final, and it's hard to pick against the defending champs. England have more depth, greater firepower, and the experience of having been in these high-pressure games regularly.

Italy's inspirational run has been remarkable, but to continue, they would likely need a near-perfect performance. The Italians may well put up a fight, and even an early scare if their trend of scoring first continues, but over 90 minutes, England's quality should prevail.

Prediction: England to win and advance to the final. A likely scoreline could be 2-0 or 2-1 in England's favor, with the Lionesses eventually wearing down Italy's defense. Barring a miracle upset by Italy, England's blend of attacking options and tournament savvy should be enough to get the job done.

The betting odds reflect that expectation, and the most probable outcome is an England victory to set up a showdown for the Euro 2025 trophy on Sunday.