By Philip O'Connor GENEVA (Reuters) -Italy were within touching distance of a first Women's Euro final since 1997 until a stunning England comeback derailed their dream, but the Italians can look forward to a bright future as they reap the benefits of a more professional approach.

Just a minute from the final, Le Azzurre found victory in defeat, capturing the hearts and minds of their country, but will it be enough to spark change?

Italian national team coach Gennaro Gattuso is closely following the development of Inter Milan striker Francesco Pio Esposito.This according to the Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews.Francesco

On Wednesday, July 23, the Live with Kelly and Mark hosts were exclusively chatting with PEOPLE at the premiere for their new ESPN series, Running with the Wolves, which chronicles their journey as co-owners of the Italian soccer team Campobasso FC.

There were tears, distress and disbelief for Italy's players after a 2-1 loss to England after extra time in the Women’s European Championship semifinals.

Mark Consuelos previews ESPN’s “Running with the Wolves,” a new docuseries on what unfolded when he and Kelly Ripa entered the high-stakes world of Italian football–er, soccer.

After barely surviving against Sweden, England head into the Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy as overwhelming favourites.

Italy is one win away from reaching the final of the Women’s European Championship, but just three years ago its players couldn’t even get professional contracts back home.

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos' journey to leading their Italian soccer team to success will be the subject of a new four-part docuseries on ESPN+ premiering July 29.

Clubs like AS Roma have played a key role in this evolution, bridging old-school structure with modern tactical innovation. From the creative peak of Francesco Totti to recent European campaigns