On Wednesday night in the ORACLE Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-final, England and Sweden put on a display of elite footballing skill. The game would go down to extra time as a stunning back and forth 2-2 tie after full time. The match played out on [insert date] at [insert venue], as both sides offered up a showcase of skill, determination and fierce resilience.
Sweden came out on top first, with veteran forward Kosovare Asllani scoring after only two minutes. This early goal took the air out of the match and really set the tone for the entire first half, as Sweden completely dominated the pace. In the 25th minute, Stina Blackstenius scored her second, doubling Sweden’s lead after taking advantage of a defensive miscue from England. With England faced with an intimidating task, Sweden was in the drivers’ seat from the moment they took a 2-0 lead by halftime.
When the second half started, England took their time, focused, and tried to get back into the match in their favor. Their tenacity was rewarded in the 79th minute when Lucy Bronze headed home, triggering dreams of a come-from-behind upset. Just two minutes after that, Michelle Agyemang got on the end of a loose ball following a scramble in the box, bringing England level at 2-2. The fast pace of the game led to an exciting close, with both teams heading into regular time on even ground.
The game moved into extra time after the teams failed to find a winning goal in the first 90 minutes of regulation time. In the 94th minute, Sweden’s Elin Janogy had a promising opportunity to regain the lead, but her shot was intercepted by England’s Lucy Bronze, who continued to impress with her defensive skills.
As overtime continued, the growing physicality of the game started to wear on players. As the clock ticked into the 103rd minute, England’s Leah Williamson appeared to be escaping on the field. She was slightly hobbled but hung tough and played on. Lauren James made her return to the pitch against Denmark after battling an ankle injury. She was in pain and had a hard time moving but she really tried to step up and help her team win.
The pressure continued to build until that proved very close as a long-range free kick threatened to make it 2-0 in the 105th minute. England’s defense stood strong, clearing the danger and cutting off the angle to keep the match even. Kelly stood out for England for the entirety of the match, playing a big role in both of England’s goals.
Sweden responded with some tactical substitutions as they attempted to wrestle back the flow of the game. Asllani and teammate Fridolina Rolfo were substituted off in a bid to refresh the squad for the decisive moments ahead.
Agyemang’s international experience is minimal, having played just under 40 minutes in three total games. She really stepped up in a big way during this game. She scored twice in two minutes, putting her unbelievable talent on full display. It’s fitting that this accomplishment shone a light on her ascendance as a pivotal force on the pitch for this squad.
With the additional period stretching on, both squads put on a master class of tactical brilliance and physical stamina. The game was even dubbed an “advert for women’s football.” It afforded us the opportunity to deeply and meaningfully celebrate the talent, passion, and commitment of each team. Spectators looked forward to a “scrumptious additional 30 minutes” of down and dirty action and fast paced creativity. As penalties loomed, the tension in the air was tangible.