Only four squads remain in the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro, and the pressure amplifies with a chance to compete in the tournament final at stake. A multitude of thrilling moments have already unfolded, showcasing both top-rated contenders and unexpected overachievers among the remaining competitors, and the semifinal matches present an opportunity for players to immortalize themselves in their nation’s sporting annals.
England’s journey to defend their championship remains formidable, and Spain’s pursuit of their inaugural Euro title appears increasingly destined. While Germany has showcased resilience, navigating through injuries, ejections, and suspensions, Italy’s position as the underdog is both charming and impressively potent.
But which athletes will shine the most prominently under the spotlight? I believe there are four pivotal players on each team who could dictate the outcome for their respective sides.
Here’s a preview of who to watch closely as the semifinals approach:
Ranking Women’s Euro semifinalists: World Cup victors Spain spearhead the group, Italy perform beyond expectations
Pardeep Cattry
Italy – Sofia Cantore
Many will be focused on the seasoned striker Cristina Girelli, and understandably so. The team captain is participating in her fourth Euros, leads the team with three goals, and has encountered both triumphs and setbacks with the national team. Nonetheless, it’s the partnership with fellow forward Sofia Cantore that has propelled Italy into the conversations surrounding Europe’s top four. The service specialist has provided two assists over four matches with Italy, demonstrating her influence both with and without possession, and her connection with Girelli is highly noticeable.
The pair previously played together at Juventus, but Cantore achieved a milestone as the first Italian player to commit to an NWSL team and will be joining the Washington Spirit after her engagement at the Euros. The 25-year-old is equally adept at providing assists and scoring goals, although she hasn’t yet found the net during the Euros, creating an interesting narrative surrounding her as the semifinals approach.
Germany – Jule Brand
There is widespread discussion concerning the exceptional goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who produced a crucial save to maintain parity and performed admirably during a penalty shootout. However, which outfield player will impact Germany’s performance in the semifinals? Look no further than Jule Brand.
The 22-year-old has proven her versatility as an attacking midfielder and winger, and continues to establish herself in significant tournaments. Firstly, during Germany’s journey to a bronze medal in the Olympics, and now with two goals and two assists in the Euros. Her creative spark will be essential against an offensively-minded England, and her ability to retain possession will make her a threat to Germany in defensive situations as well.
England – Lauren James
Frankly, there are almost too many players to monitor when discussing the Lionesses. Ella Toone has been a productive force for England and is known for performing well in important matches, while Chloe Kelly is a reliable impact player coming off the bench. Regardless, England is entering the aftermath of a lengthy and demanding quarterfinal clash against Sweden, and will need to efficiently overcome Italy within regulation time to mitigate any possible fatigue.
This is where forward Lauren James can excel. Her capability to perform across the attacking line makes her a formidable threat from any position, and her confidence on the ball when challenging defenders can instantly alter the game’s flow. She contributed two goals in the group stage, and it appears she is poised for another noteworthy showing.
Spain – Claudia Pina
Similarly to England, Spain possesses a deep pool of talent to select from. Esther Gonzalez is leading the race for the golden boot with four goals, and Alexia Putellas is a contender for the best player award, with three goals and four assists. Two-time Ballon d’Or recipient Aitana Bonmati has steadily increased her playing time during the tournament, but it’s forward Claudia Pina who has been somewhat overlooked during the Euros.
Pina has a strong understanding with her Barcelona club teammates on the squad, can blend relentless effort with her offensive skills, and secured Spain’s spot in the semifinal by adding a decisive goal during a 2-0 victory over Switzerland in the quarterfinal. She achieved success at the youth level and frequently appeared as a substitute for the senior team, but her performances during the Euros have earned her a position as a genuine starter for Spain.
