Italy exits Euro2024 after a 2-0 defeat against Switzerland in Berlin. The Azzurri, appearing lackluster and at the mercy of their opponents, failed to overcome the solid Swiss side, despite some errors in finishing by the Swiss team.
The first half: Switzerland takes the lead
The match opened with a great chance for Embolo, stopped by Donnarumma in a one-on-one. At the 37th minute, Vargas provided a perfect assist for Freuler, who controlled the ball well and scored the opening goal for Switzerland. Just before the end of the first half, Rieder came close to doubling the lead from a free kick, but Donnarumma and the post prevented the goal.
The second half: a second goal and despair for Italy
At the start of the second half, Switzerland found their second goal just 30 seconds in, thanks to Vargas, who had plenty of time to control and aim precisely. A shocking own goal by Schar in the 52nd minute further complicated the situation for Italy. The Azzurri tried to respond, with Scamacca hitting the post in the 74th minute from a Retegui assist, but it was not enough.
Spalletti’s words: decisive pace
At the end of the match, National Team coach Luciano Spalletti commented on the elimination, attributing the defeat to the superior pace of the opponents. “The pace made the difference. At this moment, we are not capable of more than this. I tried to change some starters,” said Spalletti. “That goal at the start of the second half broke us, we were not incisive enough, their pace was higher already in the first half, and even individually there was a different step between the pairs.”
Conclusion
Italy leaves Euro2024 with many reflections to make and the awareness of having to work hard to bridge the gap with other national teams. Switzerland, with a solid and determined performance, advances to the quarterfinals, proving once again to be a team not to be underestimated.
