By Philip O'Connor GENEVA (Reuters) -Italy were within touching distance of a first Women's Euro final since 1997 until a stunning England comeback derailed their dream, but the Italians can look forward to a bright future as they reap the benefits of a more professional approach.

There were tears, distress and disbelief for Italy's players after a 2-1 loss to England after extra time in the Women’s European Championship semifinals.

SportsLine's Jon Eimer reveals his picks for the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 semifinal match featuring Italy and England

OBERENTFELDEN, Switzerland — In a few short years, striker Michelle Agyemang has gone from being a ball girl at Wembley to scoring vital goals for England that will see them contest the Women's European Championship final on Sunday as she leads the charge for young players in Switzerland.

By Olivia Le Poidevin GENEVA (Reuters) -Italy coach Andrea Soncin found solace in heartbreak after his side came within one minute of reaching the Euro 2025 final, saying it was an encouraging sign that they came so close before losing 2-1 to England in extra time on Tuesday.

England’s substitutes inspired once again to complete an unbelievable turnaround against Italy and book their place in a third consecutive major final at Euro 2025. The Lionesses suffered another early setback when Barbara Bonansea punished sloppy defending in the first half and Le Azzurre held firm until the 96th minute in Geneva.

England fall behind after Barbara Bonansea opens the scoring for Italy on 33 minutes in the semi-final of Euro 2025.

Italy might be heading into their Women's Euro semi-final against reigning champions England as underdogs on Tuesday, but the squad believe that they have earned the right to be feared by the other teams remaining in the competition.