Ten countries have earned a place in the final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, at the end of the first semi-final aired yesterday, Tuesday 13 May. Five nations were eliminated based on televoting.

Among the qualifiers, Gabry Ponte stands out, representing San Marino with the song Tutta l'Italia, and Tommy Cash for Estonia with Espresso Macchiato. The other artists who access the final are: Shkodra Elektronike for Albania (Zjerm), Vaeb for Iceland (Roa), Claude for the Netherlands (C'est La Vie), Kyle Alessandro for Norway (Lighter), Justyna Steczkowska for Poland (Gaja), Napa for Portugal (Deslocado), KAJ for Sweden (Bara Bada Bastu) and Ziferblat for Ukraine (Bird of Pray).

Lucio Corsi's performance did not leave anyone indifferent, as he presented his song Voglio essere un duro, runner-up at Sanremo 2025 and winner of the Mia Martini Critics' Award. Corsi, who convinced Italy on the Ariston stage with a profound and unexpected text, performed with English subtitles. Also at his side was guitarist and producer Tommaso Ottomano.

There were also some surprises: among those excluded was Red Sebastian of Belgium, one of the bookmakers' favorites. After the second semifinal on Thursday, 26 countries will compete in the final on Saturday, followed by millions of viewers. The semifinal scores, as per the rules, will be announced only at the end of the final evening.

(Unioneonline/vf)

© Riproduzione riservata