Cantore: Italy focused on turning dream of Euros final into reality

Sofia Cantore and her Italy team-mates have full focus on turning their dream of reaching the final of Euro 2025 into reality.

Italy are looking to reach just their first final in the competition since 1997, when they lost to Germany in the final.

Le Azzurre face England in Tuesday's semi-final. They have lost seven of the last 10 meetings against the Lionesses in all competitions but have won both of their encounters at the Euros (2-1 wins in 1987 and 2009).

Cantore played a crucial role in helping Itally reach the last four, assisting Cristiana Girelli twice in their 2-1 win over Norway.

After the tournament, she will become the first Italian player to play in the NWSL after securing a move to the Washington Spirit.

Cantore, who revealed Italy have been dreaming of reaching the final from the start of the tournament, was not surprised to see her connection with Girelli work for the national team after playing together for Juventus.

“We started this journey dreaming of 27 July [the final],” Cantore told UEFA.com. “Now we have a real shot at getting there. The coach keeps reminding us of that and we'll give it everything we've got.

“Having played together for years at Juve, it's no surprise to see us clicking on the pitch. I deliver the cross and Girelli scores, often with a header.

“When I see her in the box, I know I just need to get the ball in, and 90% of the time she'll put it in the net.

“People praised me for the two assists in the last match, but I wasn't fully satisfied. I'm always chasing perfection, even though it's impossible.

“For me, a perfect game would be one without a single mistake, but that's not realistic. As a forward, the goal is to be as clinical as possible.”

The appreciation goes both ways, with Girelli adding: “Cantore has everything it takes to shine. She's had an incredible season, but people forget the past and focus only on the present. She's a key player in this team.”

Girelli is likely to play another big role in the semi-final after her brace in the last eight. The 32 previous meetings between Italy and England have never ended goalless.

Although Italy have been viewed as the underdog against England, Girelli sees no reason not to have confidence.

“Sometimes, all it takes in football is a spark – just a moment to turn things around,” said Girelli.

“People calling us underdogs aren't wrong, but football is played on the pitch, not on paper.

“On paper, we're the weaker side – but on the field, we'll be ready to fight. And when Italy give everything, we're always that much harder to beat.”