Only four teams remain in the 2025 UEFA Women`s Euro, with a coveted spot in the final at stake. The tournament has already delivered excitement, featuring both favored contenders and unexpected dark horses. The semifinals are the crucial stage where players can cement their legacy in national team history.
England`s title defense appears robust, while Spain`s pursuit of their inaugural Euro championship seems almost destined. Germany has demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming injuries, red cards, and player suspensions. Meanwhile, Italy, embracing their underdog role, has proven to be both captivating and formidable.
The question now is, which players will shine brightest on this grand stage? Each of the four remaining teams boasts key individuals who could very well determine their team`s advancement. Here are the players to watch in the semifinals:
Italy – Sofia Cantore
While veteran striker Cristina Girelli, captaining Italy in her fourth Euros and leading with three goals, will undoubtedly draw attention, it`s her partnership with Sofia Cantore that has propelled Italy into the Euro semifinals. Cantore, a skilled facilitator, has provided two assists in four matches, showcasing her significant impact both with and without the ball, and her strong chemistry with Girelli is evident. The pair previously played together at Juventus. Cantore also notably became the first Italian player to sign with an NWSL team, set to join Washington Spirit after the Euros. The 25-year-old is as adept at creating goals as she is at scoring them, and though she hasn`t yet scored in this tournament, her play sets up an exciting narrative for the semifinals.
Germany – Jule Brand
Much discussion revolves around Germany`s outstanding goalkeeper, Ann-Katrin Berger, whose crucial saves and penalty shootout heroics have been vital. However, for a field player who will significantly impact Germany`s semifinal performance, Jule Brand stands out. The 22-year-old has demonstrated her versatility as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, consistently excelling in major tournaments. Following her contributions to Germany`s Olympic bronze medal, she has now accumulated two goals and two assists in the Euros. Her creative play will be essential against England`s potent attack, and her ability to maintain possession will also make her a defensive asset for Germany.
England – Lauren James
The Lionesses boast an abundance of talent, making it challenging to pick just one player to watch. Ella Toone has been consistently effective and performs well in high-pressure matches, while Chloe Kelly is a reliable impact substitute. However, given England`s arduous quarterfinal against Sweden, they will need to secure a decisive victory against Italy in regular time to mitigate fatigue. This scenario creates an ideal opportunity for forward Lauren James to excel. Her versatility across the attacking front makes her a dangerous presence from any position, and her bold approach when challenging defenders can instantly shift the game`s momentum. Having scored two goals in the group stage, she appears poised for another pivotal performance.
Spain – Claudia Pina
Like England, Spain possesses a deep roster of skilled players. Esther Gonzalez currently leads the Golden Boot race with four goals, and Alexia Putellas is a strong contender for the tournament`s best player, contributing three goals and four assists. Two-time Ballon d`Or recipient Aitana Bonmati has steadily increased her playing time throughout the tournament. However, forward Claudia Pina has emerged as a quietly effective force. Pina`s familiarity with her Barcelona club teammates on the national squad allows her to blend relentless work ethic with her potent attacking skills. She secured Spain`s semifinal spot with a crucial insurance goal in their 2-0 quarterfinal victory over Switzerland. Despite a history of success at the youth level and often coming off the bench for the senior team, Pina has undeniably earned her place as a key starter for Spain in this Euro championship.
