England’s performance in their semi-final clash against Italy at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 has sparked plenty of debate among fans and pundits alike. While the Lionesses ultimately managed to edge out a win, the match raised a few eyebrows—particularly around what might be going wrong, or if anything is actually wrong at all.
To be fair, England didn’t exactly collapse under pressure. In fact, they played with grit and discipline for most of the match. The single goal they conceded to Italy appeared to come from a small lapse in concentration—a minor defensive slip that Italy capitalized on with precision. One could argue that, aside from that moment, England didn’t do much wrong defensively. But in a tournament at this level, those small errors can be costly, especially against sides that are technically sharp and opportunistic like Italy.
Comparing this current England squad to the team that triumphed in the previous Euros reveals some subtle but significant differences. While this year’s team is still resilient and mentally strong, they lack some of the fluidity, sharpness, and creative edge that made their previous tournament run so convincing. They’re still very much contenders, but the sense of dominance they once had feels a bit more subdued in this tournament.
That said, England’s ability to grind out results is a strength in itself. Even when not playing their best football, they manage to stay composed and push through tight situations. The mental fortitude on display, especially in knockout matches like this one, shouldn’t be underestimated. Winning ugly is still winning—and it speaks volumes about the team’s character.
It’s also worth noting that the competitive landscape of women’s football has evolved significantly over the past few years. Other nations are catching up in terms of quality, tactics, and investment. Teams that might have once been considered outside challengers are now legitimate threats. Italy, for example, showcased intelligent play and strong organization, making life difficult for England throughout the match.
Spain is perhaps the most striking example of this evolution. They’ve managed to maintain their high standards and even elevate their game, culminating in their recent World Cup triumph. Their consistency over the past four years highlights a growing shift in the power dynamics of women’s international football—and reminds us that England’s past dominance isn’t guaranteed in future competitions.
In the end, while there may be areas for England to improve, there’s no need for alarm bells just yet. The Lionesses are still in the fight, still capable of lifting the trophy, and still carrying the legacy of their previous success. But it’s clear that the road ahead is tougher, and every step forward now requires more grit, sharper focus, and perhaps a touch of reinvention.