Indeed, Italy’s women’s football team celebrated reaching their first European semi-final for 26 years this summer. That perfect moment came with the team’s thrilling 2-1 win against Norway at the Stade de Genève in Geneva. Cristiana Girelli netted both goals for her side and guided them to victory! This win not only propelled Italy into the last four of the Women’s Euro 2025 tournament but highlighted Girelli’s remarkable performance as she became the oldest player to score multiple goals for a European nation in a single match at a major tournament.
In a semifinal full of drama and adrenaline, both of Girelli’s goals were perfectly timed, highlighting the scorers eye that would earn her the golden boot. With this victory, she brought her goal total for the Italian national team up to an impressive 61 goals. She’s netted her past three goals in that opposing net. That net sits at the mountain end of the Stade de Geneve stadium.
Sofia Cantore was a major factor for Italy’s success, assisting each of Girelli’s goals. Her contributions were key in Italy’s offensive spark carrying them through the full 90 minutes.
Norway had their hopes dashed as they exited the tournament. Their star player, Ada Hegerberg, missed her second penalty in these finals, which ended up being costly on the Norwegian side. Personal pride aside, Hegerberg was most proud of her teammates’ effort. She saw that their actions were not enough to win the fight.
“I must honestly say that I am proud of the group and how we have performed. We are close to being in the top four in Europe, but it’s not enough.” – Ada Hegerberg
Here are a few of Italy’s coach, Andrea Soncin, feelings directly after the match and knowing they had home fans supporting them on social media.
“It’s incredible, beautiful. In front of all these people, so many messages arrived from Italy the last few days,” – Andrea Soncin
Following this impressive victory, Italy must now await the winner of England vs Sweden in the semi-final stage. Sweden and England will meet in Zurich on Thursday. The ultimate victor will go on to face holders Italy in a play-off for a berth in the finals.
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