Girelli's Last-Minute Magic Sends Italy to Historic Euro 2025 Semi-Final
It was a night to remember in Geneva as Italy edged past Norway 2-1 in a dramatic Euro 2025 quarter-final clash. The match had all the hallmarks of classic tournament football — missed chances, tactical discipline, rising stars, and a hero stepping up in the final moments.
Cristiana Girelli, at 35 years old, proved age is just a number as she delivered a sensational brace to push Italy into their first semi-final at a major tournament since 1997. Her match-winning goal in the 90th minute sent Italian players and fans into wild celebrations, a moment that will live long in the memory of supporters back home.
The game began cautiously, with both teams wary of making mistakes. Despite a tournament filled with goals, the first half offered little excitement in the final third. But Italy showed signs of intent, with chances from Manuela Giugliano and Emma Severini testing Norway’s defense. The breakthrough came five minutes into the second half when Sofia Cantore whipped in a threatening ball from the right, and Girelli was on hand to redirect it into the net with the faintest touch.
Norway, shaken by the goal, had their moment to hit back quickly when Ada Hegerberg won a penalty. But just like earlier in the tournament, she missed — a low shot wide of the post that left fans stunned. To her credit, Hegerberg made up for it moments later with a composed equalizer in the 66th minute, bringing Norway level and seemingly shifting momentum their way.
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But just when it looked like extra time was inevitable, Cantore stepped up again with a perfect cross into the box. And there she was — Girelli — rising unmarked to head the ball into the net and seal a famous win for Italy. Cue pandemonium.
Manager Andrea Soncin’s touchline sprint during the celebration captured the passion of the moment. Having already been booked earlier for his protests, he couldn’t hold back as he joined his players at the corner flag.
This result is more than just a win; it’s a statement. Italy have never won a quarter-final at a major tournament before. They’ve failed at this stage four times in the past, but this time, they held firm. Girelli’s performance earned her UEFA's Player of the Match, and her place in history as the oldest player to score a brace in such a tournament.
Young Norwegian star Signe Gaupset shone on an otherwise disappointing night for her team, showing glimpses of a bright future. But for Norway, the questions will linger — especially about Hegerberg’s penalty miss and defensive lapses.
Now Italy await either Sweden or England in the semi-final. On this form, the so-called dark horses of the tournament might not be in the shadows much longer. Girelli summed it up best post-match: “It’s a dream that becomes reality… this is for all the girls in Italy who believe they can play football.”
Whatever happens next, Italy have already made history. And they've done it with belief, resilience, and a 35-year-old legend leading the way.
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