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Defending champions Italy face Switzerland in the first round of 16 game at the ongoinng Euro 2024 Championship on Saturday evening.
Switzerland advanced confidently from Group A of the Euro 2024 tournament, maintaining an unbeaten record and nearly surpassing Germany. A last-minute goal by Germany’s Niclas Füllkrug in their final match relegated Switzerland to second place.
Despite this, Switzerland shows no intimidation and is ready to face reigning champions Italy in Berlin. “Italy have some great players, so it will be a big challenge,” said Switzerland manager Murat Yakin.
“We’re staying focused on ourselves, but also need to make sure we’re prepared for the strengths and weaknesses that Italy have.”
Italy’s journey in Group B was equally dramatic. They secured their place in the next stage with a crucial 98th-minute equalizer against Croatia, courtesy of Mattia Zaccagni.
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“Sometimes the mistakes they make are the result of too much commitment and desire. We don’t have many players who are used to these competitions,” said Italy manager Luciano Spalletti.
These teams previously clashed in the group stage of EURO 2020, where Italy claimed a decisive 3-0 victory in Rome. However, expectations are high for a much closer contest this time around.
Both squads are determined, setting the stage for a thrilling round of 16 encounter. The match promises to be an intense battle as both teams strive to move forward in the tournament.
Italy’s dramatic late equaliser against Croatia brought a wave of calm and confidence to the squad, evidenced by coach Luciano Spalletti’s impromptu decision to allow fans and media into their Wednesday practice.
Switzerland and Italy set for classic encounter
Spalletti, known for his unpredictable team selections, continues to keep everyone guessing about the lineup. The crucial goal from Mattia Zaccagni might be the catalyst the Azzurri needed to ignite their tournament run.
Switzerland, making their third consecutive appearance in the EURO knockout stages, are set to challenge the defending champions. Their campaign has been characterized by strategic play and strong team cohesion.
As they prepare for their showdown in Berlin on Saturday, Murat Yakin’s side Swiss side is determined to extend their journey in the tournament. With confidence and tactical acumen, they aim to pose a serious threat to Italy’s ambitions.
Possible line-ups
Italy: Donnarumma; Darmian, Mancini, Bastoni; Di Lorenzo, Barella, Jorginho, Cristante, Dimarco; Scamacca, Chiesa.
Suspended: Calafiori.
Misses next match if booked: Cristante, Donnarumma, Fagioli, Pellegrini.
Switzerland: Sommer; Schär, Akanji, Rodríguez; Stergiou, Xhaka, Freuler, Aebischer; Ndoye, Embolo, Vargas.
Suspended: Widmer.
Misses next match if booked: Freuler, Ndoye, Rodríguez, Sierro, Xhaka.
Kick-off time
The Switzerland-Italy match will kick off at exactly 5:00pm (WAT/GMT+1).
Prediction
Switzerland 1-1 Italy (Italy to qualify).
Tags: Switzerland, Italy, #Euro2024, round of 16, Azzurri, Luciano Spalletti, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcsports, Granit Xhaka
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