In England’s Euro 2025 semi-final clash against Italy, the players’ performances varied significantly, impacting the overall outcome of the match. Here’s a detailed analysis of their contributions:
Starting with the goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, who delivered a solid performance, earning a 7 out of 10. His crucial saves in the first half kept England in the game, particularly his reflex stop from a close-range header. However, his distribution under pressure was occasionally suspect, which could have been exploited by a more clinical Italian side.
In defense, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold was a standout performer, meriting an 8. His attacking prowess was evident, providing width and delivering dangerous crosses that troubled the Italian defense. However, his defensive positioning was occasionally exposed, requiring cover from his teammates.
Central defenders John Stones and Harry Maguire were reliable, both scoring a 7. Stones was composed in possession, while Maguire’s aerial dominance was crucial in neutralizing Italy’s set-piece threats. However, both were caught out of position during Italy’s equalizer, highlighting a lapse in concentration.
Left-back Luke Shaw had a mixed game, earning a 6. While he contributed to England’s attacking play, his defensive duties were sometimes neglected, allowing Italy to exploit space on his flank.
In midfield, Declan Rice was instrumental, deserving an 8. His ability to break up play and shield the defense was vital, and he distributed the ball efficiently, setting the tempo for England’s attacks. Jude Bellingham, alongside him, also scored an 8, showcasing his box-to-box capabilities and providing a crucial assist for England’s opening goal.
Mason Mount, operating in a more advanced role, was less effective, scoring a 6. While his work rate was commendable, he struggled to find space and influence the game in the final third, often being crowded out by Italy’s disciplined midfield.
On the wings, Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden both earned a 7. Sterling’s pace and directness were constant threats, but his decision-making in the final third was inconsistent. Foden, on the other hand, displayed technical brilliance, creating several opportunities, but was often isolated and unable to capitalize fully.
Up front, Harry Kane was pivotal, scoring an 8. His hold-up play and link-up with midfield were exemplary, and he converted a crucial penalty with composure. However, he was starved of service at times, limiting his impact.
Substitutes Jack Grealish and Bukayo Saka injected energy and creativity, both earning a 7. Grealish’s dribbling and Saka’s directness added a new dimension to England’s attack, but they were introduced too late to change the game’s outcome.
Overall, England’s performance was a blend of individual brilliance and collective lapses, ultimately leading to their narrow defeat. The match highlighted the need for greater defensive cohesion and more incisive attacking play to succeed at the highest level.