Lionesses Diary - Day 21: Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy looms

The day of the Lionesses’ semi-final clash has arrived as they face Italy in Geneva in search of a third consecutive major final appearance.

Having arrived in the border city that sits in the shadows of the French Alps last night, the England squad will not have had more striking scenery to take in on their pre-match walk.

Here is everything you need to know from day 21 at Euro 2025.

Today in camp

Thoughts will almost be entirely occupied by the upcoming game against Italy that kicks off at 8pm UK time this evening.

Preparation on the pitch will all have been completed as final team talks are delivered, with no one knowing more acutely than the players exactly what is at stake.

The focus will surely be on starting far stronger than they did against Sweden, conceding a Kosovare Asllani strike after two minutes which instantly put them on the back foot.

The Lionesses have been known to come out strong, against all three group stage opponents they showed as much, and they will hope to channel that energy into a crunch clash against the Italians.

While showers were forecast, the sun was out as they hit the streets for their pre-match stroll, and they will hope it metaphorically continues to shine on their chances of progression.

Team news

Sarina Wiegman confirmed Leah Williamson was fit to start against Italy, having completed training on Monday.

The England captain had been seen leaving Stadion Letzigrund in a boot and on crutches after falling awkwardly on her ankle against Sweden.

But Wiegman said in her pre-match press conference that she was able to complete a full session out on the grass at Sportanlage Au and thus could play in the Euro 2025 semi-final, much to the relief of Lionesses’ fans.

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