Switzerland competes in its first ever quarter-final in Europe on Friday night and challenges Spain for a place in the Euro 2020 semi-final.
Vladimir Petkovic’s men produced one of the shocks of the competition when they beat world champions France 5-4 on penalties after a 3-3 draw in 120 minutes. The resulting penalty shootout ended 5-4 in favor of the Swiss and sealed a first round of victory 16.
- Advertisement -
They will face a Spanish side that finally seems to be coming close to their best after scoring five goals in two consecutive matches – for the first time in European Championship history. They booked their place in the last eight with the permission of a fantastic 5-3 victory against Croatia, where Alvaro Morata and Mikel Oyarzabal got the goals for extra time.
Here is the Swiss team that can play.
Yann Sommer was brilliant against France / Daniel Mihailescu – Pool / Getty Images
Yann Sommer (GK) – The hero of his side’s victory over France, saving Kylian Mbappe’s penalty. The obvious number one and safe starter.Nico Elvedi (CB) – Went really well against Mbappe in a one on one situation and will need to be on high alert again against Spain. Manuel Akanji (CB) – He has been the leader of the entire Switzerland campaign as a commanding presence at the back. He will have a lot to do against the floating Spanish front line.Ricardo Rodriguez (CB) – Missed a penalty that could have put Switzerland 2-0 up against Les Bleus, but that should not keep him off the sidelines for this one.
Denis Zakaria can come to the side for the first time since Switzerland opened the Euro 2020 match / Marcio Machado / Getty Images
Silvan Widmer (RWB) – Did not have the best of games last time but Petkovic trusts him a lot and should be in line for a new start.
Denis Zakaria (CM) – Granit Xhaka’s suspension is a bitter blow for the Swiss, so Zakaria really needs to take the step. His athleticism can be crucial in stifling Spain’s creators and pushing his side up the field.Remo Freuler (CM) – He has been a solid defensive presence in front of the back line and will need to be in top form to see his defense against those like Pedri in the Spanish midfield.Steven Zuber (LWB) – Can add a danger to the last third with his delivery, although his mind may be taken up by the dangerous broad men he will face on Friday.
⚠️ Do we have a shock on the cards? ⚠️
What little midfield ahead from Seferovic? #FRASUI | #ITVFotboll | # Euro2020 pic.twitter.com/7dCO3QnWgc
– ITV Football (@itvfootball) June 28, 2021
Xherdan Shaqiri (CF) – Undoubtedly capable of magic, but he must be much sharper than last time to change Spain’s defensive unit – if he is on singing, he can be the key.Breel Embolo (ST) – Demonstrated how much a handful he can be against France in possession, as well as with his runs behind. Gives Switzerland another dimension from above.
Haris Seferovic (ST) – Another hero in the famous victory against Les Bleus. His brilliant headband was the key to his side, and he has more than earned what will be his 79th hat on Friday.
