Italy Storms Into Semifinals as Reigning Champions Draw First Blood in the Final Four Chase…Read More…
The defending champions are back — and they mean business.
Italy, the reigning titleholders, have become the first team to punch their ticket to the semifinals at the 2025 European Championship, delivering a performance that was equal parts clinical, composed, and commanding. With their latest win, the Azzurri have extended their unbeaten run in the tournament and sent a clear message to the rest of the competition: the crown still fits.
The quarterfinal clash, held under the bright lights of Munich’s Allianz Arena, saw Italy take on a resilient and tactically sharp Croatian side that had impressed throughout the group stages. But when the stakes were raised, it was Italy who rose to the occasion — leveraging experience, talent, and tenacity in equal measure.
Early Pressure, Instant Reward
From the very first whistle, Italy set the tone. Manager Luciano Spalletti’s side came out pressing high, forcing errors, and dominating possession. The midfield trio of Nicolo Barella, Jorginho, and Davide Frattesi controlled the tempo, while full-backs Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Federico Dimarco pushed forward with purpose.
It took just 12 minutes for the breakthrough to arrive. A clever one-two between Lorenzo Pellegrini and Dimarco on the left flank opened up space for a looping cross that met the head of the ever-dangerous Gianluca Scamacca. The Atalanta striker made no mistake, burying the ball into the bottom corner and igniting a sea of Italian flags in the stands.
Croatia, stunned but not shaken, tried to find their rhythm. Luka Modrić, in what could be his final major tournament, pulled the strings from midfield, and winger Josip Brekalo threatened with his pace. But Italy’s defense — marshaled by Alessandro Bastoni and Gianluca Mancini — remained rock-solid, absorbing pressure and denying clear-cut chances.
Second Half Surge
The second half saw a rejuvenated Croatia begin to mount a comeback attempt. In the 56th minute, a swerving effort from Mateo Kovačić forced Gianluigi Donnarumma into a full-stretch save — a reminder that the match was far from over.
But just when Croatia looked closest to leveling, Italy struck again. This time it was a counterattack masterclass. A turnover in midfield allowed Barella to release Federico Chiesa down the right wing. The Juventus winger, electric all night, danced past two defenders before cutting the ball back to Pellegrini, who calmly slotted home to make it 2–0 in the 68th minute.
The Italian bench erupted. Spalletti, usually composed, was seen pumping his fist and shouting in celebration — a rare display that underlined the magnitude of the moment.
Croatia’s Late Fightback Falls Short
To their credit, Croatia didn’t go quietly. In the 77th minute, they earned a lifeline when substitute Mario Pašalić bundled home a rebound after a corner kick created chaos in the box. At 2–1, nerves began to creep in — but Italy held their ground.
Donnarumma came up big again in stoppage time, denying Ivan Perišić’s curling effort that was destined for the top corner. It was a world-class save that ensured Italy’s place in the final four and preserved their tournament momentum.
Post-Match Reactions
Speaking after the match, Spalletti praised his team’s discipline and hunger.
“We came into this match knowing it wouldn’t be easy,” he said. “Croatia are a very experienced side with great players. But we stayed true to our identity — calm on the ball, fierce off it — and that made the difference. I’m proud of every one of my players.”
Captain Gianluigi Donnarumma echoed the sentiment.
“We’re not done yet. We know what it takes to win this tournament. We’ve done it before. But this team is hungry to write its own story — not just repeat history.”
Croatia’s coach Zlatko Dalić remained gracious in defeat.
“Italy were better tonight. We gave everything, but sometimes that’s football. We’re proud of our journey, and we’ll go home with our heads held high.”
What’s Next for Italy?
With the win, Italy moves into the semifinals, where they await the winner of the upcoming clash between Spain and Belgium. Both teams offer a different kind of challenge, but Italy — seasoned, structured, and surging — won’t be easy prey for anyone.
Their mix of youth and experience, tactical balance, and sheer tournament pedigree continues to serve them well. Players like Chiesa, Barella, and Donnarumma are leading the charge, while the depth from the bench has proven invaluable.
As fans flooded the streets of Rome, Naples, and Milan in celebration, the echoes of “Campioni d’Europa” rang out once again. Italy’s dream of back-to-back European titles is alive and well — and judging by this performance, it’s a dream that could very well become reality.
Final Score: Italy 2, Croatia 1
Goals:
- Gianluca Scamacca (12’)
- Lorenzo Pellegrini (68’)
- Mario Pašalić (77’)
Man of the Match: Federico Chiesa — relentless, creative, and decisive throughout the game.
As the Azzurri march into the semifinals, one thing is clear: the defending champions are here to defend — and they’re not leaving without a fight.
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