England fans endured another nerve-wracking night as the Lionesses edged closer to the Women's Euro 2025 final. The semi-final match against Italy was far from a comfortable victory, filled with drama and requiring extra time to secure a 2-1 win.

The Lionesses' path to the final has been anything but serene, marked by resilience and reliance on impactful substitutions. In the quarter-final against Sweden, and in their opening match against France, England were arguably not the superior team. Yet, their tenacity and strength in depth proved decisive. Italy, exceeding expectations in the tournament, presented a formidable challenge.

The game was a tense affair, with Italy proving to be a tough opponent. Barbara Bonansea's goal showcased Italy's attacking threat. England's midfield struggled to find its rhythm for much of the match, thanks to Italy's clever and technical players.

Despite not always being at their best, England's mental fortitude has been crucial to their Euro 2025 journey. Sarina Wiegman's side demonstrated their ability to keep fighting until the final whistle. The manager also suggested that the dramatic nature of England's progress might someday make a good movie.

Ultimately, England's persistence paid off, securing their place in the final. However, they will likely need more than just fighting spirit if they want to retain their title.