It was a round of 16 where Switzerland took control of the game straight away, while Italy had great problems getting their game going. The Swiss not only controlled the game, but also offered several scoring chances.
With just over 20 minutes played, only a fine save by Gianluigi Donnarumma prevented Switzerland from taking the lead.
Instead, it took until the 37th minute before Remo Freuler could score the 1-0 goal for Switzerland after a pattern attack.
Immediately after the half-time break, it was time again. The 2-0 goal for Switzerland came courtesy of Ruben Vargas, who sent in a cannon shot with just under half a minute played in the second half.
We knew we needed a perfect day and we had a perfect day, says Granit Xhaka in SVT.
Italy came close to a reduction just minutes later through a free kick that Switzerland defender Fabian Schär almost headed into his own goal – but the ball hit the post.
There were no goals for the reigning European champions, who are thus eliminated from the football European Championships.
For Switzerland, the winner between England and Slovakia awaits in the quarter-finals. The round of 16 will be played on Sunday.
I am so proud to be a part of this team. We are not finished here, the next match will be just as difficult, but we have the qualities to win against anyone, says Xhaka.
Italy’s Alessandro Bastoni after the exit in the EC Round of 16.
Italy’s Alessandro Bastoni after the exit in the EC Round of 16.
Photo: Antonio Calanni/AP/TT