Italy have exited Euro 2024 in a rather disappointing manner after a sparkling display by Switzerland, who secured a well-deserved 2-nil victory and set up a potential quarter-final clash with England.
Luciano Spalletti, the Italian manager, made six changes to the starting lineup in search of a spark, but it was Switzerland who proved to be the better side from the outset. Breel Embolo came close to finding the breakthrough early in the match. Switzerland controlled 65 percent of the possession and had eight of the first nine attempts on goal prior to taking the lead.
The Swiss eventually took the lead when an impressive cross from Ruben Vargas was met with a controlled cultured finish by Remo Freuler, past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Reuben Vargas, who plies his trade in the Bundesliga with Augsburg, doubled the lead just 27 seconds into the second half. He picked up Michel Aebischer’s pass near the left-hand corner of the Italy area and expertly bent the ball into the far top corner of the net.
Italy’s lackluster performance was evident as they did not manage a shot on target until the 73rd minute. Their best chance prior to that occurred when Switzerland defender Fabian Schar headed Nicolo Fagioli’s cross against his own post, leaving goalkeeper Yann Sommer stranded. Gianluca Scamacca also hit the woodwork from close range before the end but Italy never seriously threatened a comeback and their forgettable campaign in Germany simply fizzled out.
While the Azzurri head home, Switzerland roared on by their energetic supporters in Berlin will move on to Dusseldorf where their title chase continues against either England or Slovakia next weekend.
Melissa Enoch
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