England vs. Italy Tips and Odds – 22/07/2025

• Date: Tuesday, 22 July 2025
• Venue: Stade de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
• Fixture: England Women vs Italy Women (Semi-final)

The Stage is Set

With a place in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 final on the line, England and Italy collide in what promises to be a high-drama semi-final in Geneva. Fresh from a pair of phenomenal quarter-finals, both sides arrive with momentum—England as defending champions looking to go back-to-back, Italy hoping to reach their first final in nearly three decades. The Lionesses staged a jaw-dropping comeback against Sweden, scoring two late goals (Bronze and Agyemang) before holding their nerve in a tense penalty shootout, exemplifying their resilience and refusal to let go of their crown.

Italy, meanwhile, continue their Cinderella run. The Azzurre stunned Norway as captain Cristiana Girelli netted a decisive brace, including a 90th-minute winner, sending Italian fans into ecstasy. This marks Italy’s first semi-final appearance since 1997—a remarkable resurgence for the 13th-ranked team and a testament to their unity under coach Andrea Soncin.

Recent Results and Team Form

England enter this clash having scored 13 goals in the tournament, more than any other team, but they have not had it all their own way. After a shaky start (losing to France), the Lionesses hammered the Netherlands 4-0 and thrashed Wales 6-1 to secure their group spot, showing their firepower and squad depth. Their penalty win over Sweden showcased their mental fortitude. Recent head-to-head clashes favor England, with a dominant 5-1 win in their last meeting (a friendly in February 2024).

Italy have been the tournament’s surprise package. They finished second in their group and stunned Norway 2-1 in the quarters thanks to Girelli’s heroics. Earlier, they navigated a tough group featuring Belgium, Portugal, and Spain. Notably, Italy have scored first in all four of their games, putting England on guard against a fast start.

Team News, Injuries & Suspensions

England are sweating over the fitness of captain Leah Williamson, who suffered an ankle injury in extra time against Sweden but returned to training on the eve of the match, providing a major boost—though a final fitness call will be made pre-match. Lucy Bronze ended the last game with hamstring tightness, and Lauren James picked up knocks but is expected to play. Midfielder Ella Toone is a yellow card away from suspension, something for Sarina Wiegman to manage carefully. England are without Ella Morris, who is ruled out with an ACL injury.

Italy report no fresh injuries or suspensions and benefit from a nearly full-strength squad. However, four Italian players (Lucia Di Guglielmo, Manuela Giugliano, Sofia Cantore, and Martina Lenzini) are one booking away from a ban, so discipline will be key for them. The Azzurre’s consistency in selection and fitness could be a quiet advantage as England have had to draw on their squad depth due to knocks.

Key Players to Watch

• Lauren James (England): Chelsea’s dynamic forward, lauded for her technique and decisive contributions, especially in crunch moments.
• Lucy Bronze (England): Veteran full-back, a leader whose overlapping runs and set-piece threat have turned games for England.
• Cristiana Girelli (Italy): The Italian captain is in vintage form, scoring crucial goals (including a quarter-final double). Her experience, aerial ability, and composure will be central to Italy’s hopes.
• Hannah Hampton (England): Her shootout saves and composure under pressure against Sweden underlined her growing stature between the posts.
• Manuela Giugliano (Italy): Midfield metronome, orchestrator of Italy’s possession game, and key to stifling England’s creative threats.

Match Prediction

England’s pedigree and depth, especially in attack, make them favorites—but injuries and a heavy extra-time quarter-final could lead to a tense encounter. Italy arrive with real belief, disciplined defending, and the confidence of toppling Norway. Still, the Lionesses’ tournament know-how and bench impact, with Wiegman’s tactical nous, may just edge the tie.

Prediction: England to win, but likely by a single goal in normal time or after extra time, with both sides scoring.

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This semi-final promises fireworks—a reigning champion against a relentless underdog, both brimming with late-game drama and star power. Geneva is in for a night to remember!