Switzerland vs. Italy: First Upset in EURO 2024 Round of 16

Switzerland Stun Defending Champions Italy in Euro 2024 Knockout Clash

Switzerland produced a stunning 2-0 victory over defending champions Italy in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 match at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.

Match Summary

Remo Freuler opened the scoring for the Swiss in the 37th minute, converting a cross from Ruben Vargas with a powerful low shot that took a slight deflection off an Italian defender.  Vargas then doubled Switzerland's lead early in the second half with a superb curling shot from outside the box that found the top corner.

Italy struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the match and were unable to find a way back into the game. The Azzurri's recent form of DLWWDW proved no match for Switzerland's DDWDWW, as the underdogs showcased their tactical discipline and team unity.

Key Moments

• Breel Embolo missed an early chance for Switzerland, but his shot was comfortably saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma
• Freuler opened the scoring in the 37th minute with a well-placed shot after a good setup by Vargas
• Donnarumma made a crucial save to deny Embolo in a one-on-one situation earlier in the match
• Vargas doubled Switzerland's lead just a minute into the second half with a superb curling shot from outside the box
• Italy struggled to create chances and were outplayed by Switzerland's solid defense and relentless pressing

Reaction

Switzerland's victory marks their third consecutive appearance in the Euro knockout stage, and they will now face the winner of the Austria-Turkey match in the quarter-finals.  The reigning champions Italy, meanwhile, have been knocked out of the tournament, ending their defence of the title.

Italy coach Luciano Spalletti acknowledged his team's lack of pace and incisiveness, attributing the defeat to the Swiss team's superior speed and individual performances. The Italian fans were left dismayed by their team's lackluster showing, with many leaving the stadium before the final whistle.

Switzerland's supporters celebrated their team's victory, knowing they would advance to face either England or Slovakia in the quarterfinals. Coach Murat Yakin's well-executed strategy and the team's solid defensive performance were key factors in their triumph.

The Bad Tackle

As I said in a previous post: An Italian squad that doesn't prioritise defence is not Azzurri! Who were the impostors who came to EURO 2024?  I'll let the Italian press figure that out.