Putting in a nightmare performance on Saturday evening, reigning champions Italy relinquished their European crown as they slumped to a routine 2-0 defeat against Switzerland in Berlin.
Although the Azzurri might have always been set for a stern examination in the German capital, they were completely outclassed from the opening whistle as they limped their way out of this summer’s tournament.
Watching the Swiss take a deserved lead in the 37th-minute as Remo Freuler powered past a helpless Gianluigi Donnarumma, they only further established their dominance after returning from the half-time break.
Flying out of the traps following the interval and doubling their advantage just 27 seconds later as Ruben Vargas produced a thunderous strike, the Rossocrociati will now be planning for what could be a blockbuster final eight battle against England.
Although Gianluca Scamacca might have hit the woodwork from close range before the end, the Azzurri never seriously threatened a fightback and their forgettable campaign in Germany simply fizzled out.
On an evening when Switzerland sent the defending champions packing and booked a second consecutive quarter-final ticket, we have taken a look at the main talking points from Berlin.
Swiss dominance in Berlin
Suffering what was a nightmare World Cup exit out in Qatar 18 months ago as they suffered a 6-1 drumming against Portugal at the Round of 16 stage, Switzerland were always relishing a return to the major tournament stage this summer.
Although they might have signed off their EURO 24 qualifying adventure last year with just a single victory from any of their final seven appearances, the Rossocrociati have made plenty of improvements since opening up the New Year.
Getting their European adventure underway with a thumping 3-1 victory against Hungary on June 15th, Switzerland were unbeaten in all of their three Group A appearances as they followed host nation Germany to the knockout stage.
While there…
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Author : Tom Dunstan
Publish date : 2024-06-29 22:23:26
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