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Switzerland Gears Up for EURO 2024 Showdown Against Defending Champions Italy
As the EURO 2024 tournament reaches its knockout stages, an enthralling round of 16 clash is set to unfold between Switzerland and the reigning European champions, Italy. Having comfortably progressed from Group A, remaining unbeaten and even coming close to finishing above Germany, Murat Yakin's Swiss side exudes a sense of confidence and fearlessness that could pose a formidable challenge to the holders.
"The first step is done," captain Granit Xhaka declared. "We're looking forward to the next round and our next opponents. I hope everyone has a little bit more respect for Switzerland now."
Switzerland's journey to the knockouts has been marked by a combination of smart tactics and a palpable unity within the team, attributes that have defined their campaign thus far. As they prepare to face Italy in Berlin, Yakin's men are primed to showcase their mettle against the European champions, aiming to extend their remarkable run.
"We have fought very hard to make it here, and these are special games," Yakin acknowledged. "Year in and year out with the Switzerland national team, there are some very interesting games. We're very happy to play against Italy, and I think it will be a very open game. I don't want to be drawn on who the favorite is. We know about their quality, their tactics, and temperament, so it will certainly be special, and we hope it can pan out the same way as our recent previous meetings."
Italy, on the other hand, needed a dramatic 98th-minute equalizer from Mattia Zaccagni against Croatia to seal their place as Group B runners-up, a moment that could prove pivotal in their campaign. "We're going step by step," forward Mateo Retegui admitted. "We'll play against another strong team in Switzerland, but we want to win and go forward."
Luciano Spalletti, the Italian coach, acknowledged the challenge posed by the Swiss, stating, "We know we are up against very awkward customers in Switzerland. We have not managed to show all our potential so far, or maybe we only did so for a few moments. We deserved to qualify, even if we needed a last-gasp goal, but we need to take it up a step, especially in terms of personality."
The upcoming clash between Switzerland and Italy promises to be a closely contested affair, with both teams boasting strong defensive units and a wealth of attacking talent. While Italy triumphed 3-0 against the Swiss in the group stage of EURO 2020, this round of 16 tie is expected to be a much tighter encounter, as Yakin's men seek to avenge that defeat and continue their impressive run.
As the anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Berlin, where the defending champions will face a determined Swiss side hungry to etch their names in the annals of EURO history. With their unwavering spirit and tactical astuteness, Switzerland aims to defy the odds and extend their remarkable journey, while Italy seeks to reassert their dominance on the European stage.