Four left standing: Italy, England, Spain, and Germany set up blockbuster 2025 Women’s Euro semi-finals
The quarter-finals of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship delivered on every front - drama, grit, and just enough chaos.
Switzerland’s knockout stage offered a fresh layer of intensity, and now only four remain. Italy, England, Spain, and Germany will battle it out for a place in the final, each with a very different story so far.
Italy end 28-year wait with gritty win over Norway
Against Norway in Geneva on July 16, Italy claimed a 2-1 victory thanks to veteran striker Cristiana Girelli’s brace - one tap-in and a dramatic 90th-minute header.
Their cohesion, humility and resolve were repeatedly praised as defining characteristics of their run.
They hadn’t reached a Euro semi since 1997, making this one of their most significant breakthroughs.
England stage epic comeback against Sweden
In a dramatic game, England overturned a 2-0 deficit to draw 2-2, then edged Sweden 3-2 on penalties.
Substitutes Chloe Kelly, Michelle Agyemang and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton played starring roles - Hampton saving three spot-kicks despite a bloody nose.
They became the first side in Euro knockout history to come back from two goals down, though questions linger over their slow starts and defensive frailties.
Spain ease past hosts Switzerland with world-class rhythm
Spain continued to look like tournament favourites in a sharp 2-0 quarter-final win against Switzerland.
They held full control and kept their perfect record intact, with Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina the scorers.
Their blend of possession and attacking intent now puts them on a collision course with Germany - another heavyweight test.
Germany survive red-card chaos to beat France
Germany’s encounter with France on July 19 boiled over early when Kathrin Hendrich was sent off in the 13th minute.
France took the lead through a Geyoro penalty, but Sjoeke Nusken equalised.
Germany held firm to 1-1 and triumphed 6-5 on penalties, with goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger saving multiple spot-kicks and stepping up to score her own.
Despite the red card and injuries at right-back, their resilience carried them through.
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Will history repeat itself?
The fixtures are now set. England face Italy in Geneva on Tuesday, 22 July, while Germany meet Spain in Zurich on Wednesday, 23 July - both matches kicking off at 21:00 CET.
England remain unpredictable, but their strength and tournament pedigree could be enough to get past Italy.
As for the world champions, Spain, it would be a major shock if they get sent home early by Germany.
If England and Spain go through to the finals, will we have a repeat of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?
However, if Germany do the impossible and beat Spain's superteam, it will feel like deja vu from the 2022 Women’s Euro decider.
Either way, history is waiting to be rewritten.
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