Eppe Franklyne –
- Girelli scored twice, including a dramatic last-minute winner, securing Italy’s 2-1 comeback win against Norway.
- Italy reached the Euro semifinals for the first time since 1997, setting up a clash with England or Sweden next week.
- Norway, featuring stars Ada Hegerberg and Caroline Graham Hansen, were held off despite Hegerberg’s goal and a missed penalty.
- Girelli, Juventus forward and Italy’s all-time top scorer with 61 goals, made history as the oldest player to score twice in a Women’s Euros at 35 years and 84 days.
- Italy dominated much of the match but had to overcome missed opportunities before clinching the win in Geneva.
Cristiana Girelli’s outstanding performance on Wednesday night propelled Italy into the semifinals of Women’s Euro 2025 with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Norway in Geneva. The Juventus striker opened the scoring five minutes after halftime and sealed the win with a last-gasp header from Sofia Cantore’s cross, sending the Azzurre into their first Euro semifinal since 1997.
Italy’s triumph came against a formidable Norwegian side featuring two of women’s football’s biggest names, Ada Hegerberg and Caroline Graham Hansen. Despite Norway’s pedigree—they were the first nation to win the World Cup, European Championship, and Olympic gold—Italy controlled large portions of the game, though they struggled to convert several chances early on.
Girelli credited Cantore for her winning goal: “She gave me an incredible ball for the second goal. She looked up, saw where I was and just put it on my head, so it was easy for me to put it in the goal.” Reflecting on the dramatic finish, Girelli added, “I didn’t realise how close we were to the end of the match… I still can’t believe it, it’s just magnificent.”
Norway’s Hegerberg, despite missing a penalty earlier in the match, managed to score in the 66th minute, equalizing after Girelli’s opener. However, Italy’s resilience shone through, as Girelli’s decisive header in the final moments secured a historic win.
Girelli’s brace marks a significant milestone; she is now the oldest woman to score multiple goals in a Women’s Euros match and has extended her tally to 61 goals for Italy, underscoring her vital role in the national team’s success.
Looking ahead, Italy will face either defending champions England or Sweden in the semifinals, with the squad brimming with confidence after overcoming a tough Norwegian side. This victory represents a major step forward for Italian women’s football, rekindling memories of their 1997 final appearance and signaling their growing presence on the European stage.
