England’s build-up to their Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy has been overshadowed by the racial abuse aimed at defender Jess Carter. The squad has rallied around Carter, with head coach Sarina Wiegman confirming the Chelsea player remains “ready to perform,” but defensive concerns remain a pressing issue.

Wiegman now faces key selection dilemmas ahead of Tuesday’s clash as England aim for their third consecutive major tournament final.

Defensive Uncertainty Lingers

Throughout the tournament, England’s backline has looked vulnerable, with both France and Sweden exploiting their defensive frailties. Carter has been rotated across multiple positions in an effort to plug the gaps, while Alex Greenwood and Esme Morgan have also shifted roles.

Morgan made a strong impression off the bench in the quarter-final against Sweden and could be in contention to start. Meanwhile, team captain Leah Williamson is available again after recovering from an ankle injury, following concerns when she was seen in a protective boot last week.

“We always have selection headaches,” said Wiegman. “That’s what makes this team strong.”

A Test of Mental and Tactical Strength

England made history in their quarter-final by becoming the first team to win a knockout Euros match after trailing by two goals. Yet, they can’t afford another slow start, especially against an Italian side that has scored first in every game of the tournament.

“This is the business end,” said forward Beth Mead. “We’ve got to be sharp, focused, and ready for knockout football.”

Wiegman echoed that sentiment, warning against underestimating an Italy side that is back in the semi-finals for the first time since 1997.

“Complacency would be the biggest mistake,” she said. “Italy earned their place here. We’ll need to be at our absolute best.”

Italy’s Rise and Threats

Despite a long history in women’s football, Italy only recently became a fully professional side. Ranked 13th in the world, they are now showing their potential on the biggest stage.

“They’re aggressive, determined, and technically gifted,” said Mead. “We can’t take anything for granted.”

Italy’s captain Cristiana Girelli has already netted three goals in the tournament and poses a real threat. England, however, have dominated recent meetings — winning 2-1 at the Arnold Clark Cup in 2023 and hammering Italy 5-1 in a 2024 friendly.

Former England international Fran Kirby cautioned, “Italy are underdogs, but they’ll have seen England’s vulnerabilities. If England lock things down at the back, they’ll be tough to beat.”

The Stakes

England have reached the semi-finals in seven European Championships and won two of their last three. A third consecutive final would underline their dominance under Wiegman, who has already delivered back-to-back Euros titles with the Netherlands and England.

“It’s our standard now,” said defender Alex Greenwood. “We expect to reach these stages, and we’re proud of that.”

The semi-final kicks off at 20:00 BST on Tuesday — with England focused on silencing the doubters and defending their crown.