In a thrilling comeback, England surged back from a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Sweden, ultimately triumphing 3-2 in a heart-stopping penalty shootout to book their place in the semifinals of the Women’s European Championship 2025. The decisive moment came when Sweden’s Smilla Holmberg missed the final penalty, sealing England’s victory.
The match began with an early lapse from England, allowing Sweden’s Stina Blackstenius to assist captain Kosovare Asllani for a quick goal just two minutes in. Blackstenius then doubled Sweden’s lead in the 25th minute, showcasing her pace as she finished confidently past Jess Carter.
England began their fightback in the 79th minute when Lucy Bronze connected with a pinpoint cross from Chloe Kelly, heading the ball in from a tight angle, much to the delight of the fervent England supporters. Just two minutes later, substitute Michelle Agyemang leveled the score with a deft finish, sending the match into extra time.
This match marked a historic moment for the Women’s Euros, becoming the first instance where a team has rallied to overcome a two-goal deficit in a knockout stage match.
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Despite both teams having opportunities in extra time, the match was ultimately decided by penalties. Swedish goalkeeper Jennifer Falk made an impressive four saves, a record for a Women’s Euro shootout, but then missed a vital penalty herself, sending the ball soaring over the bar.
Bronze was the first to score for England, allowing them to take the lead in the shootout, while Holmberg’s miss confirmed England’s place in the semifinals. England’s total of three successful penalties ties with Denmark’s 2017 record for the fewest by a team to win a shootout in the Women’s Euros. Regardless, Sarina Wiegman’s squad is undeterred, becoming the first reigning champions since Germany in 2009 to progress beyond the quarterfinals in the subsequent tournament.
This report utilized information from Reuters and ESPN Research.