‘England to get the job done in 90’published at 19:54 British Summer Time
England v Italy (20:00 BST)
England have to play no-risk football in the opening few minutes so they can feel their way into the game and get through the first 10 or 15 minutes unscathed.
This is Italy’s first semi-final at a major finals since 1997 but they will feel they belong on this stage as much as England do and they certainly won’t care that they are facing the holders. Going ahead would only boost their confidence further and I want to see England start on the front foot this time.
Ultimately, Italy would probably be happy if this goes into extra-time, knowing England have more minutes in their legs, but I don’t think this tie will get that far.
It is going to be a very tough 90 minutes for all Lionesses fans as well as the players on the pitch but I am backing England to get the job done in normal time.
Brown-Finnis’ prediction: 2-1
