Italy, the reigning champions, made a lackluster exit from Euro 2024 as a dazzling performance from Switzerland set up a potential quarter-final clash with England.
The Swiss controlled the game from the outset and deservedly went ahead when the outstanding Ruben Vargas crossed to Remo Freuler, who took a touch and fired a low shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Vargas, who plays for Augsburg in Germany, doubled the lead just 27 seconds into the second half. He received a pass from Michel Aebischer near the left-hand corner of the Italy area and expertly curled the ball into the far top corner.
Italy didn’t register a shot on target until the 73rd minute, with their best chance before then coming when Swiss defender Fabian Schar headed Nicolo Fagioli’s cross against his own post, leaving Yann Sommer helpless.
Although Gianluca Scamacca also hit the woodwork from close range towards the end, Italy never truly threatened a comeback, and their disappointing campaign in Germany petered out.
As Italy heads home, Switzerland, cheered on by their enthusiastic and lively supporters in Berlin, move on to Dusseldorf to face the winner of the England vs. Slovakia match on Saturday, 6 July (17:00 BST).
Swiss show us all their qualities
Switzerland was only prevented from securing a significant victory over hosts Germany by an injury-time equalizer in their final group game, but this match showcased all their strengths.
Murat Yakin’s team displayed greater intensity from the start, coupled with sharp passing, particularly from the wings.
They frequently penetrated Italy’s defense early on, although Dan Ndoye failed to connect with Granit Xhaka’s perfectly weighted cross into the box, and Breel Embolo shot too close to Donnarumma after being set up by Vargas.
Freuler’s opening goal was well-deserved, adding to his two assists in the tournament. Although Fabian Rieder’s free-kick was pushed onto the post just before halftime, Vargas quickly gave Switzerland a cushion with a second goal.
Switzerland maintained their energy in the closing stages, and their organization ensured a comfortable victory.
This marks the second consecutive Euros where they have reached the last eight, having lost on penalties to Spain in the previous tournament. They will be a tough challenge for any team they face next.
Italy fans head straight for exits
While the Switzerland squad celebrated with their fans at the final whistle, many Italian supporters headed straight for the exits, having seen enough of their team.
After being outplayed by Spain, Italy only made it to the last 16 thanks to a 98th-minute equalizer against Croatia, but such heroics seemed out of reach this time.
A win would have set up a potential rematch of the Euro 2020 final, but this performance resembled the ones that led to Italy missing out on qualification for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
Italy’s fiery manager Luciano Spalletti has defended himself against critics throughout the tournament, but even he will find it hard to draw any positives from this weak display.
Spalletti made six changes from the team that struggled against Croatia and altered the formation again. However, these changes had little effect, and Italy exited the tournament with a whimper.
Player of the match: G. Xhaka