Euro 2024
Switzerland Eliminates Defending Champions Italy
The reigning European champions Italy were sent packing at the Round of 16 stage by a resplendent Switzerland side.
Switzerland’s Ruben Vargas was the hero of the day, contributing twice in a 2-0 triumph that saw his team advance to the quarter-finals for the second successive edition of the tournament.
The memories of Switzerland’s victory over then-world champions France at the same stage three years ago injected a surge of optimism into the Swiss team’s early endeavors.
Despite being labeled as underdogs, Switzerland looked extremely assured in possession right from the start.
The first half saw few meaningful chances, with Italy struggling to gain momentum against a determined Swiss side. Federico Chiesa’s low shot was blocked by Manuel Akanji, and the only highlight for Italy came from a smart save by Gianluigi Donnarumma to deny Breel Embolo.
Switzerland dominated the first half, with efforts from Fabian Schär and Ricardo Rodriguez testing the Italian defense.
The breakthrough came through Remo Freuler, who received the ball from Ruben Vargas in the area and volleyed it past Donnarumma to give Switzerland a well-deserved lead.
As the second half began, Ruben Vargas extended Switzerland’s lead with a stunning curled effort from the edge of the area, leaving Italy trailing by two goals.
Despite Italy’s attempts to stage a comeback, with Gianluca Scamacca hitting the post, Switzerland’s solid defensive display, led by Akanji and Schär, ensured that the outcome was never in doubt.
The victory marked Switzerland’s first win against Italy in nine head-to-head encounters and only the second win since they hosted the 1954 World Cup.
The defeat raised questions about Italy’s performance and the future of their coach, Luciano Spalletti, following such a disappointing display in Germany.
