Joey Barton sparks backlash with controversial post as England Lionesses reach Euro 2025 final

Joey Barton has been criticised after fans spotted his social media post during England's clash against Italy in the 2025 Women's Euros.

On Tuesday night, the Lionesses were in action against Italy as the pair battled for a place in the final of the Euros.

Italy went ahead through Barbara Bonansea in the 33rd minute, with England struggling to break down the stubborn Italian defence.

In the sixth minute of injury time, Michelle Agyemang equalised to rescue England and send the tie into extra time.

With just one minute left of the 120, England were awarded a penalty after Beth Mead was fouled inside the area.

Arsenal star Chloe Kelly saw her effort saved by Laura Giuliani but managed to score from the rebound to seal a 2-1 victory.

As a result, the Lionesses will take on either Spain or Germany in Sunday's final.

England are through to the final of the 2025 Women's Euros. Image: Getty

During the match, before the extra time period started, former Manchester City and Newcastle United midfielder Barton was hosting a live watchalong and wrote on social media: "30 more minutes of this (with a hand on face emoji). Tune in."

In the comments section, one fan said: "For someone who hates women’s football you seem to watch a lot of it. Just accept it for what it is and get over it."

Another tweeted: "You love the ladies game really Joey, just too stubborn to admit it."

A third fan added: "Cry some more Joey. They’ve reached more finals in last 4 years than the men have since 1930."

Someone else wrote: "Stop being so worried about the quality of the game and be a fan of the Lionesses. You clearly love it as you watch every game."

A fifth commented: "U seem to watch and talk a lot about it for somebody who doesn't like it don't u!"

England will take on Spain or Germany in Sunday's final. Image: Getty

Speaking after the match, goalscorer Kelly said: "It feels unbelievable. Such a great feeling. This team deserves nothing but that. Three finals on the bounce and we want more.

"I just try my best for the team. It wasn't supposed to go like that [the penalty] but obviously the keeper had done her homework. We go back to the drawing board and keep practicing those penalties. Luckily I got there for the tap-in."