Zurich, Switzerland – Reigning champions England kept their UEFA Women’s European Championship title defence alive with a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout win over Sweden, ending the Blågult’s impressive 15-match unbeaten run. This nerve-wracking quarter-final showdown had everything: goals, mistakes, heroic comebacks, and late drama — and it could be just the beginning of a historic campaign for the Lionesses.
🟡 Early Drama and Defensive Woes
It was a nightmare start for England fans as Kosovare Asllani capitalised on a defensive error to give Sweden the lead in the second minute. Keira Walsh’s poor clearance ricocheted off Filippa Angeldahl, allowing Stina Blackstenius to assist the Swedish captain for a clinical opener.
England were all over the place defensively, with goalkeeper Hannah Hampton nearly gifting a second goal — if not for Leah Williamson’s superb sliding challenge. But within minutes, Lauren Hemp equalised with a powerful strike that Falk deflected onto the crossbar and in.
⚽ Sweden Regain Control
Despite the early response, England’s backline continued to falter. A simple through ball from Julia Zigiotti Olme sent Blackstenius clear, who slotted calmly past Hampton for 2-1. Hampton made several crucial saves afterward, notably denying Fridolina Rolfö to keep England in the game before half-time.
🔄 England’s Second-Half Revival
Manager Sarina Wiegman’s halftime team talk seemed to inspire the Lionesses. Ella Toone and Hemp had early chances, but England still looked vulnerable at the back. Once again, Blackstenius threatened with her strength and awareness, unsettling the English defenders.
Just when hope seemed to fade, Chloe Kelly turned the game on its head. First, her pinpoint cross was headed in by Lucy Bronze, and moments later, another delivery caused chaos in the box for Michelle Agyemang to pounce and score. England had pulled off a remarkable comeback in the space of two minutes.
🧱 Extra-Time Heroics and Final Nerve Test
Sweden came close through Madelen Janogy and Nathalie Björn, but Hampton stood firm. Extra time saw more drama, including Niamh Charles’ vital clearance to deny Lina Hurtig. Alessia Russo nearly clinched it at the death, but missed her chance, sending the match to penalties.
🎯 Penalty Shootout: The Defining Moment
The shootout was tense and error-filled. Sweden’s goalkeeper Jennifer Falk had the chance to win it, but she blazed her shot over the bar. England held their nerve, with Lucy Bronze converting confidently. The decisive moment came when youngster Smilla Holmberg missed, sealing England’s spot in the semi-finals.
Next Stop: Italy in Geneva
England now prepare for a fiery clash against Italy in Geneva on Tuesday, as they aim to retain their European crown. For Tanzanian fans, it’s another chance to watch football at its finest and cheer on their favorite Lionesses, whose fighting spirit remains unmatched.
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📌 Final Thoughts
The Lionesses have shown once again why they are European champions — not because they’re flawless, but because they never stop fighting. From being outplayed to turning the match around in unforgettable fashion, England’s grit and determination stood tall in Zurich. The road to the final isn’t easy, but it’s the journey that defines the champions.
Stay tuned as England face Italy in what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.
