Defending champions Italy were eliminated from the European Championship after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the last 16, setting up a quarterfinal clash for the Swiss against England or Slovakia.
Bollywood Fever: Defending champion Italy was eliminated from the European Championship after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday.
Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas scored in each half, securing Switzerland’s first victory over their southern neighbors in 31 years. This win sets up a quarterfinal clash against either England or Slovakia in Düsseldorf on July 6.
Switzerland dominated the match, leading in possession, shots, attacks, and passes. By the time Italy mounted a response in the second half, the Swiss defense, guided by coach Murat Yakin’s effective game plan, held firm.
Freuler broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, expertly setting up Vargas’ cross with his first touch and scoring with his next. Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who had earlier saved a one-on-one against Breel Embolo, made a spectacular save to deflect Fabian Riedler’s free kick onto the post before halftime.
However, the second half had barely started when Vargas curled a shot from the edge of the penalty area into the top right corner. Switzerland defender Fabian Schär was fortunate to see his attempted headed clearance rebound off the post minutes later.
As fans attempted to start a Mexican wave through the Olympiastadion, the Italian supporters were not in the mood. Italy pushed forward in search of a comeback but failed to break through. Gianluca Scamacca came closest, hitting the post, though he appeared to be offside.
Italy coach Luciano Spalletti, who had previously spoken of his team’s “beautiful suits” before the Spain game, couldn’t conjure a last-minute miracle this time. Despite substitute Mattia Zaccagni’s last-second equalizer against Croatia, Spalletti was unable to save Italy from elimination.
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