In a gripping display of determination and tactical acumen, the Italian Women`s National Football Team, affectionately known as the “Azzurre,” secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Norway in the UEFA Women`s Euro 2025 quarter-finals. This triumph, spearheaded by a decisive brace from veteran striker Cristiana Girelli, marks Italy`s return to the European Championship semi-finals for the first time since 1997, signaling a formidable resurgence under coach Andrea Soncin.
A Decade of Pursuit Culminates in Geneva
The final whistle in Geneva brought forth a torrent of emotion: Coach Andrea Soncin dropping to his knees in exhilaration, the jubilant pile-up of Italian players on the pitch, and a vociferous crowd, unmistakably in favor of the Azzurre, whose unwavering support proved invaluable during the match`s most challenging phases. This victory culminates a twelve-year pursuit, a journey punctuated by fleeting moments of brilliance on the global stage and a couple of particularly arduous periods in European competitions. While the echoes of the formidable 1997 team, which reached the final before succumbing to a powerful Germany, are now more relevant than ever, the current narrative is decidedly new. It might be premature to predict a return to the unmitigated glory days of the 1990s, yet Cristiana Girelli and her teammates have achieved their immediate, maximum objective. Any further advancements, as coach Soncin frequently asserts, will be the realm of dreams, placing them alongside Europe`s footballing superpowers. This, he proclaims, is an Italy with “no-limits.”
Early Pressure and Shifting Fortunes
Italy initiated the match with immediate aggression, relentlessly pressing a Norwegian side that, while perhaps not at its peak from previous years, still arrived with a commendable record, topping their group (which included hosts Switzerland) with a perfect score and a history of comeback victories. Coach Soncin`s tactical setup, featuring the tireless Oliviero and Bonansea in the starting lineup, swiftly put Norway under considerable pressure. The Scandinavian team appeared somewhat subdued, struggling to ignite their star striker, Ada Hegerberg. The first half was predominantly an Italian affair; Caruso had the initial opportunity just eight minutes in, followed by attempts from Girelli, Severini, and Bonansea, whose shot narrowly missed the post around the half-hour mark. However, a momentary lapse saw Bonansea miskick, presenting a golden opportunity to Hegerberg, who, uncharacteristically, failed to find the target. Gaupset also had a late attempt, but the first half concluded goalless, yet undeniably vibrant.
Girelli`s Clinical Finish and a Twist of Fate
The second half saw Cristiana Girelli, brilliantly assisted by the relentless Cantore surging down the flank, break the deadlock with a deft touch inside the penalty area. Girelli then missed a chance to double Italy`s lead, and Norway began to gain ground. Italy, having expended significant energy, increasingly found themselves on the defensive, enduring more pressure from the Nordic side. Salvai made several crucial clearances in the box, before a moment of what could only be described as genuine confusion involving referee Frappart. In the 58th minute (13 minutes into the second half), a penalty was awarded to Norway for an action that appeared unmistakably offside. Fortunately for the Azzurre (playing in green), Hegerberg sent the spot-kick wide, a significant reprieve. Italian goalkeeper Giuliani had correctly anticipated the direction, but her effectiveness waned briefly just minutes later. A mistimed rush from goal left space for Hegerberg, who, this time, made no mistake. At 66 minutes (21 minutes into the second half), the score was level at 1-1, and Italy, appearing fatigued, found themselves in a precarious position. The desire to avoid extra time was palpable, yet the determination to push for a win remained.
Soncin made strategic substitutions, bringing on Cambiaghi for an exhausted Bonansea and Greggi for Severini, aiming to inject fresh impetus. Despite Norway frequently dictating play, Italy maintained their composure, demonstrating a remarkable clarity of thought under duress. As the clock approached the 90-minute mark, it was Girelli once more, perfectly found by Cantore`s precise delivery, who headed home the decisive goal. “Football takes, football gives,” as the old adage goes, and this time, the final minute belonged decisively to Italy. A chaotic period of added time ensued, culminating in an outpouring of ecstatic joy for a team that, just a few years prior, seemed to be at its nadir. Whether this is a small or grand achievement remains to be seen. What is undeniably clear is that these female footballers continue to ignite passion and energy in the hearts of those who witness their remarkable journey.
