'Italy Reclaims Leadership in Europe': Country marks its resurgence in the continent
**Italy's Women's EURO Semifinal Journey: A 28-Year Wait Ends in Geneva**
Italy's women's football team has made history by reaching the semifinals of the Women's European Championship for the first time in 28 years. The triumphant journey began with a 2:1 victory over Norway in Geneva, a city that will also host the semifinal on July 27.
Cristiana Girelli, the team's captain and an icon in her home country, scored both goals in the quarterfinal match. Her first goal came early in the second half, and a last-minute brace secured the victory. Girelli's 61st international goal, a header in the 90th minute, was undoubtedly her most important.
Coach Andrea Soncin, who took over the Squadra Azzurra in September 2023, expressed extreme pride following Girelli's brace. Soncin, who is happy about the semifinal being held in Geneva, stated that the motivation for the next match is very high.
Italy's path to the semifinals was not easy. They finished second in Group B with four points, having drawn with Portugal and Belgium, and lost to Spain. However, their resilience was evident in the quarterfinal against Norway, where they overcame a missed penalty to secure their place in the semifinals.
The semifinal opponent for Italy will be either England or Sweden, depending on the outcome of their quarterfinal match. Regardless of who they face, Girelli and her teammates are relishing the opportunity to compete at the highest level of European football.
Girelli, who was inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame in November 2023, has been a driving force behind the team's success. She has raised awareness of societal issues and advocated for better conditions for women footballers. Her leadership and passion for the game have inspired a generation of young Italian footballers.
The team will have a few days to "recharge" before the next game. However, with the semifinal just around the corner, the excitement is palpable. Italy last reached the final in 1997, where they lost to Germany. This time around, they will be determined to go one step further and bring the trophy back to their home country.
[1] Source: UEFA Women's EURO 2025 Official Website [2] Source: BBC Sport [4] Source: Sky Sports
The Italian women's football team, following their 2:1 victory over Norway, is set to compete in the European-leagues premier-league semifinal in Geneva, aiming to replicate the success they last achieved in 1997. Cristiana Girelli, an icon in Italian football, scored both goals in the quarterfinal match, the most significant being her 90th-minute header.
