Holders Italy made a limp exit from Euro 2024 as a dominant Switzerland set up a potential quarter-final meeting with England.
The Swiss controlled the match from the beginning and deservedly took the lead when Ruben Vargas crossed for Remo Freuler, who took a touch before hammering a low shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Vargas, who plays for Augsburg in Germany, made it 2-0 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 did not manage a shot on target until the 73rd minute. Their best effort before then came when Switzerland defender Fabian Schar headed Nicolo Fagioli’s cross against his own post, with Yann Sommer stranded.
Although Gianluca Scamacca also hit the woodwork from close range before the end, the Azzurri never seriously threatened a comeback, and their campaign in Germany simply fizzled out.
Switzerland, cheered on in Berlin by their enthusiastic supporters, will head to Düsseldorf where they will play the winners of England’s tie with Slovakia on Saturday, 6 July (17:00 BST).
The Swiss were only denied a win over hosts Germany by an injury-time equalizer in their final group game, and this match highlighted their strengths.
Murat Yakin’s side displayed greater intensity early on, complemented by incisive passing, especially from the flanks.
They frequently breached the Italian defense, but Dan Ndoye could not connect with Granit Xhaka’s weighted ball into the box, and Breel Embolo fired too close to Donnarumma when Vargas played him through.
Freuler’s opener was well-deserved, adding to his two assists in the tournament. Although Fabian Rieder’s free-kick was pushed onto the post just before the break, Vargas ensured they had breathing space early in the second half.
Switzerland maintained their energy in the closing stages and their organization led to a comfortable victory.
This is the second consecutive Euros where they have reached the last eight, having lost on penalties to Spain last time. They will be tough opponents for whoever they face next.
Italy Fans Head for Exits
While the Switzerland squad celebrated with their fans at the final whistle, many Italy supporters headed straight for the exits. After being outplayed by Spain, they only reached the last 16 thanks to a 98th-minute equalizer against Croatia, and similar heroics looked beyond them here.
Had they won, they would have set up a potential repeat of the Euro 2020 final. However, this performance was reminiscent of the one that led to their failure to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
Italy’s manager, Luciano Spalletti, has defended his tactics during this tournament, but even he will struggle to find positives from this display.
Spalletti made six changes from the side that struggled against Croatia and changed his formation again. However, it had little effect, and his side exited the tournament quietly.
