The EURO 2024 witnessed a major upset as Switzerland defeated Italy, the reigning European champions, in the Round of 16. In a match played on Saturday, June 29th at 6:00 PM CEST, Switzerland outplayed Italy, securing a 2-0 victory and a place in the quarter-finals. This defeat marks the first time Italy has lost to Switzerland in a major international tournament (World Cup + European Championship) since 1954, ending their hopes of defending their EURO title.
The game saw Switzerland dominate for significant periods, executing their game plan effectively and capitalizing on Italy’s lackluster performance. Goals from Remo Freuler in the first half and Ruben Vargas shortly after halftime sealed the win for the Swiss side. Italy, despite hitting the woodwork twice, failed to find the back of the net and struggled to impose themselves on the match.
The final whistle blew at 90’+3′, confirming Switzerland’s 2-0 victory over Italy and their progression to the next stage of EURO 2024.
Switzerland’s coach Yakin opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Sommer in goal, a defensive line of Schar, Akanji, and Rodriguez. Aebischer and Rieder operated as wing-backs, flanking the central midfield duo of Freuler and Xhaka. Embolo led the attack, supported by Vargas and Ndoye in the attacking midfield roles.
Italy, under Spalletti, shifted to a 4-3-3 formation. Donnarumma started in goal, with a defense comprising Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, and Darmian. The midfield trio consisted of Cristante, Fagioli, and Barella, while Chiesa, Scamacca, and El Shaarawy formed the attacking trident.
Match Highlights: Switzerland vs Italy, EURO 2024 Round of 16
The match began with Switzerland showing early intent, pressing Italy and controlling possession. In the 24th minute, Switzerland had a golden opportunity when Aebischer set up Embolo in the box, but Italy’s goalkeeper Donnarumma made a crucial save to keep the score level.
However, Switzerland’s pressure eventually paid off in the 37th minute. Vargas delivered a precise pass into the box, finding Freuler who controlled the ball and fired a left-footed shot past Donnarumma, despite the keeper getting a touch. Goal! Switzerland leads 1-0.
Just before halftime, Switzerland almost doubled their lead when Rieder’s free-kick from the edge of the box deflected off the wall and then off Donnarumma onto the post. Italy went into halftime trailing 1-0 and needing a significant change in approach.
At the start of the second half, Italy made a substitution, bringing on Zaccagni for El Shaarawy. However, Switzerland struck again quickly. In the 46th minute, Aebischer found Vargas in the box, who had space to control and curl a right-footed shot into the far corner, leaving Donnarumma helpless. Goal! Switzerland extends their lead to 2-0.
Italy attempted to respond, and in the 52nd minute, they hit the post when Schar inadvertently deflected Chiesa’s header onto his own woodwork. Minutes later, in the 74th minute, Scamacca, after a header assist from Zaccagni, struck the post again with a right-footed shot from close range. Despite these close calls, Italy struggled to create clear-cut chances and test Swiss goalkeeper Sommer effectively.
Throughout the second half, Italy made further substitutions, bringing on Retegui, Cambiaso, and Pellegrini, but they couldn’t break down the solid Swiss defense. Switzerland also made changes to maintain their structure and energy, including bringing on Duah and Zuber.
As the game entered its final stages, Italy pushed forward, but their attacks lacked precision and penetration. Switzerland remained organized and disciplined, denying Italy any way back into the match. The final minutes ticked away, and Switzerland secured a historic 2-0 victory over Italy, knocking the defending champions out of EURO 2024.
Post-Match Analysis: Italy’s EURO 2024 Journey Ends
Italy’s defeat to Switzerland marks a disappointing end to their EURO 2024 campaign. Having entered the tournament as defending champions, they failed to replicate their success from EURO 2020. The Azzurri’s performance against Switzerland was notably subdued, lacking the intensity and creativity needed to overcome a well-organized Swiss team.
Switzerland, on the other hand, continued their impressive form from the group stage, demonstrating tactical discipline and clinical finishing. Their victory over Italy establishes them as a strong contender in the EURO 2024 quarter-finals and highlights their potential to be a dark horse in the tournament. For Italy, this loss will prompt reflection and analysis as they look ahead to future international competitions.
