Although Italy solely scored three targets within the group phases, they’ve scored first in every of their 4 outings in Switzerland.

Andrea Soncin’s facet managed possession within the first half in opposition to Norway and transitioned from defence to assault with horrifying velocity.

England’s defence have already struggled with the tempo of France and Sweden’s forwards, and that has been an ongoing concern for the reason that World Cup in 2023.

“Italy load the road. They do it actually successfully and the Norwegians simply could not cope with how they stretch the sport,” former England defender Anita Asante mentioned on BBC One.

Italy wish to make the pitch as large as attainable. Towards Norway their large gamers hugged the touchline, that means makeshift left-back Guro Reiten was unable to contribute to assaults. They might look to pin again England full-backs Lucy Bronze and Alex Greenwood in an identical approach.

“Italy confirmed the battle, they confirmed the starvation and so they confirmed the assumption. They’re additionally reflecting the expansion of Italian girls’s soccer,” mentioned Asante.

Former Manchester Metropolis defender Nedum Onuoha picked up on Italy’s post-match celebrations.

“Italy have been celebrating as in the event that they’ve nearly received it themselves, however that is a reminder that there are such a lot of totally different perceptions as you enter the event and that is vital as a result of they will be pleased with that as a workforce and nation.

“Why can they not consider they will win another recreation and play for the entire trophy?”

That mentioned, Italy appeared to flag throughout the second half, and have been lucky Norway didn’t capitalise. Nonetheless, England wanted additional time and penalties to beating Sweden and have an damage concern over captain Leah Williamson after she hobbled off.

“I simply suppose we’re beginning to see that torpid facet from Italy, as you’d anticipate within the fourth recreation of this event,” former Scotland captain Rachel Corsie mentioned on BBC Radio 5 Reside.

“Plenty of gamers have began all of the matches. You may perceive why it could take its toll.”