The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 quarter-final clash between Sweden and England delivered a pulsating spectacle that tested the resilience and spirit of both teams. Held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, the match unfolded as a gripping rematch of their Euro 2022 semi-final encounter, where England had previously triumphed 4-0 en route to the title. This time, however, Sweden came out firing early, establishing a 2-0 lead within the first half-hour, only for England to mount a dramatic comeback culminating in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory that sent the reigning champions through to the semi-finals.
Sweden entered the quarter-finals on the back of an impressive group stage performance, having won all three of their Group C matches and conceding just a single goal. Their 4-1 demolition of Germany in the final group game was particularly eye-catching and showcased their attacking prowess. Arsenal striker Stina Blackstenius was a standout figure, having scored in consecutive matches against Poland and Germany, while Chelsea winger Johanna Rytting Kaneryd consistently contributed with assists. Veteran Kosovare Asllani, at 35 years old, rolled back the years with a goal and an assist, and Fridolina Rolfo, recently back from injury, was expected to keep her place after converting a crucial penalty against Germany.
The match began in stunning fashion for Sweden, as Kosovare Asllani capitalized on a defensive giveaway to put her team ahead within the opening two minutes. Blackstenius then doubled the lead on the 25th minute, racing past defenders to tuck away a goal, punishing England’s defensive lapses. The early dominance reflected Sweden’s high-pressing style and clinical counter-attacking threat, which had been a hallmark of their successful group run.
England, coached by Sarina Wiegman, started the match poorly, managing just three shots and a paltry expected goals (xG) of 0.12 in the first half. The Lionesses looked out of sorts, vulnerable at the back and struggling to break down Sweden’s defense. Missing key players Fran Kirby, Millie Bright, and Mary Earps, England’s squad depth was tested, but the team showed remarkable character after the interval.
The turning point came with the introduction of Chloe Kelly, whose energy and creativity sparked a revival. Kelly provided two crucial assists, the first leading to Lucy Bronze’s headed goal in the 79th minute, which halved the deficit and reignited England’s hopes. Just two minutes later, substitute Michelle Agyemang swept home a knock-down inside the six-yard box to level the score at 2-2, sending the match into extra time.
Extra time was tense, but neither side could find the breakthrough, setting up a dramatic penalty shootout. The shootout itself was a rollercoaster of missed chances and heroic goalkeeping. Both teams converted just five penalties between them over seven rounds, with England ultimately prevailing 3-2. England captain Lucy Bronze delivered the decisive penalty in the seventh round, drilling the ball down the middle with unshakable confidence despite nursing a leg injury during the game. Her composure under pressure was widely praised by Wiegman, who described Bronze’s resilience and fighting spirit as extraordinary, saying, "I have never, ever seen this before in my life."
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was another hero for England, making two critical saves during the shootout and enduring a bloody nose in the process. Hampton credited the passionate support from England’s fans for giving her an extra edge during the tense moments. On the Swedish side, goalkeeper Jennifer Falk had the chance to win the shootout for her team but blazed her penalty over the bar, while 18-year-old Smilla Holmberg also missed the final Swedish spot kick, sealing England’s passage to the semi-finals.
The victory was not without cost for England, as captain Leah Williamson rolled her ankle late in extra time and was forced off the pitch. Wiegman confirmed that Williamson’s condition will be assessed ahead of their semi-final clash against Italy.
England’s comeback and eventual triumph epitomized their trademark resilience and fighting spirit, qualities that have defined their recent successes including their Euro 2022 championship. Wiegman reflected on the match, admitting there were "at least three times" she feared England’s tournament run might end. She praised the impact of substitutes Kelly and Agyemang, noting how their fresh legs and different dynamics helped shift the momentum.
Looking ahead, England will face Italy in the semi-finals on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Geneva. Italy, who secured their first semi-final appearance in 28 years after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Norway, will provide a stern test. England’s players, including Bronze, have vowed not to underestimate their opponents despite Italy’s lower ranking, acknowledging the hunger and historic significance of the match for the Italians.
This quarter-final clash between Sweden and England was a microcosm of the drama and excitement the Women’s EURO 2025 has delivered so far. From Sweden’s blistering start and clinical finishing to England’s dogged comeback and nerve-wracking penalty shootout, the match had it all. It also highlighted the depth of talent across both squads, with multiple Bayern Munich players featuring prominently, including Georgia Stanway for England and Julia Zigiotti Olme and Magdalena Eriksson for Sweden.
As England prepare for their semi-final showdown with Italy, the focus will be on recovery, particularly for Williamson, and maintaining the unity and fighting spirit that carried them through this epic encounter. Meanwhile, Sweden can hold their heads high after a dominant group stage and a valiant quarter-final performance, showing that they have closed the gap on their English rivals since their Euro 2022 defeat.
The stage is set for an enthralling continuation of the Women’s EURO 2025, with England’s title defense very much alive and the promise of more high-stakes drama to come.
