In a big surprise, Switzerland eliminated Euro 2020 champions Italy 2-0 in their round of 16 match in Berlin.
Switzerland eliminated reigning champions Italy from Euro 2024 with a stunning 2-0 victory to reach the quarter-finals for the second time in their history.
Murat Yakin’s extremely well-drilled team dominated the double flat winners in the last 16 in Berlin on Saturday and will face either England or Slovakia in the next round.
Ruben Vargas set up Remo Freuler for Switzerland’s opener in the 37th minute before superbly heading home early in the second half to deservedly double their lead.
A revamped Italy, star-starved and devoid of many of the key figures who led it to Euro 2020 glory, barely responded to Switzerland’s energetic display.
“It hurts, it really hurts,” said Italy captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
“We can only apologise to everyone, we were disappointing today and they deserved to win. We struggled throughout the game.”
Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, who arrived at the Euros after a stunning season with German champions Bayer Leverkusen, pulled the strings as the Swiss rarely looked like letting the advantage slip.
“I’m at a loss for words. It was the most important match of my career,” said Swiss midfielder Fabian Rieder.
“Everyone played for each other, we worked well on defense and attack… we have an incredibly great team.
“We want to enjoy the moment but continue to work hard for the next game.”
