Girelli shows Norway how to be clinical as Italy reach Euro 2025 semifinal

The roar of the crowd was deafening as the final whistle blew, confirming Italy's place in the Euro 2025 semifinals. For the first time since 1997, the Azzurre have broken through to the final four of the continental showpiece, a monumental achievement underscored by a decisive 2-0 victory over Norway. At the heart of this historic triumph was the ice-cool precision of Cristiana Girelli, whose brace not only sealed Italy's passage but also served as a masterclass in clinical finishing, a stark contrast to Norway's profligacy on the night.

Girelli, the veteran striker, demonstrated exactly why she remains one of Europe's most feared forwards. Her opening goal arrived midway through the first half, a testament to her predatory instincts as she capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home with composure that belied the high stakes. The second, a beautifully executed header in the second half, showcased her aerial prowess and intelligent movement, effectively extinguishing any hopes of a Norwegian comeback. Each of her strikes was a dagger to the heart of the Nordic challenge, converting opportunities that, in a tight quarter-final, are often the difference between progression and despair. It was a performance that highlighted her invaluable experience and ability to perform under immense pressure, truly leading by example for her less experienced teammates.

Conversely, Norway will be left to rue a multitude of missed chances, particularly those falling to their superstar forward, Ada Hegerberg. Touted as one of the game's most prolific scorers, Hegerberg endured a frustrating evening, struggling to find her rhythm and, crucially, her finishing touch. Shots that on another day might have nestled in the back of the net sailed wide or were parried by a resolute Italian goalkeeper. Her visible frustration grew with each squandered opportunity, emblematic of a Norwegian side that dominated possession and created numerous dangerous situations but lacked the decisive edge. The contrast between Girelli's ruthless efficiency and Hegerberg's uncharacteristic struggles was perhaps the defining narrative of a match where fine margins dictated the ultimate outcome.