Switzerland shocked reigning European champions Italy with a 2-0 defeat at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday, June 29th, to become the first side to advance to the quarter-finals at EURO 2024.
In a match that was live on NBS Sport, the so-called underdogs delivered a thoroughly dominant display to seal a deserved victory and progress to the last-8 for the second successive European Championship.
Switzerland had already etched their name in the history books three years ago by defeating then-world champions France at this stage, and they channelled that same spirit and confidence to devastate a very poor Italian side.
From the first whistle, Murat Yakin’s men seized control of possession and territory, pressing high up the pitch and forcing the Azzurri backline into numerous errant passes.
The breakthrough eventually arrived midway through the first half, and it was no more than Switzerland deserved.
Man of the match Ruben Vargas was the architect, driving at the Italian defence before picking out the late-arriving Remo Freuler, who cleverly flicked the ball up and slammed it past the previously untroubled Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 37th minute. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of the Swiss.
Switzerland’s momentum was swiftly rewarded again just seconds after the restart, as Vargas collected the ball on the edge of the box and curled a magnificent effort into the top corner to double the advantage.
Trailing by two goals, Italy desperately sought a way back into the contest, with substitutes Gianluca Scamacca and Wilfried Gnonto going close.
However, the Swiss defence, led superbly by Manuel Akanji and Fabian Schar, stood firm to secure a famous 2-0 victory.
Switzerland were simply superior in all departments, dominating possession, pressing relentlessly, and taking their chances when they arrived.
Italy, so often the epitome of organisation and resilience, looked a shadow of their former selves, lacking invention and inspiration in the final third.
It was a night to forget for Luciano Spalletti’s side, who failed to recapture the magic that saw them crowned champions against England three years ago.
In contrast, Switzerland will march on to the quarter-finals, where either the Three Lions or Slovakia await them, but will be confident to secure another landmark triumph at this year’s Euros.
The Swiss will play again next Saturday, July 6th, at the Dusseldorf Arena, while reigning Champions Italy will now turn attention to going back home, after becoming the first side to get knocked out at the Round of 16 at EURO 2024.
