In a dramatic clash at the Olympiastadion, reigning European champions Italy were ousted from Euro 2024 in the Round of 16 by an inspired Switzerland, who secured a 2-0 victory. Ruben Vargas was the star of the match, scoring twice to propel the Swiss into the quarter-finals for the second consecutive tournament.
Switzerland came into the match brimming with confidence, recalling their famous victory over France at this stage three years ago. The Swiss displayed composure from the outset, controlling possession and frustrating Italy’s efforts to create meaningful chances. The game’s first major threat came just before the 25-minute mark when Breel Embolo forced a smart save from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy’s best moment in a lackluster first half saw Federico Chiesa’s low shot blocked by Manuel Akanji.
The Swiss pressure paid off just before halftime. Ruben Vargas, playing a pivotal role, set up Remo Freuler, who expertly flicked the ball up and volleyed past Donnarumma to give Switzerland a deserved lead. The momentum continued as Donnarumma saved a Fabian Rieder free-kick, pushing it onto the post. However, Vargas doubled Switzerland’s advantage with a stunning curled shot from the edge of the area moments into the second half.
Italy struggled to mount a significant response, though Gianluca Scamacca’s effort against the post offered a glimmer of hope. Despite the Italians’ substitutions and attempts to break through, Switzerland’s defense, marshaled by the impressive Akanji and Schär, held firm. This victory marked Switzerland’s first win against Italy in nine encounters and only their second since hosting the 1954 World Cup. For Italy, the defeat raises questions about the future of manager Luciano Spalletti, while Switzerland now looks ahead to a quarter-final clash against either England or Slovakia.
Germany Prevails Over Denmark Amidst Thunderstorms to Secure Quarter-Final Spot
Euro 2024 hosts Germany reached the quarter-finals of a major tournament for the first time since 2016 with a 2-0 victory over Denmark at Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park. The match, interrupted by a lightning storm, saw Germany dominate early proceedings, with Kasper Schmeichel’s heroics keeping Denmark in the game.
Germany thought they had taken an early lead when Nico Schlotterbeck’s header found the net, but the goal was disallowed for a foul. Despite relentless pressure, including attempts from Joshua Kimmich, Kai Havertz, and Robert Andrich, the score remained level. Denmark gradually grew into the game, with Christian Eriksen and Joakim Mæhle testing Germany’s defense before a powerful storm halted proceedings.
Following the weather delay, Havertz missed a close-range header, and Rasmus Højlund was denied by Manuel Neuer at the other end. Denmark briefly celebrated Joachim Andersen’s goal, only for it to be ruled out by VAR for offside. Moments later, Andersen conceded a penalty for handball, and Havertz calmly converted to give Germany the lead.
Havertz nearly added another with a skillful solo run, but his chip narrowly missed the target. The decisive moment came when Schlotterbeck’s long pass released Jamal Musiala, who coolly finished to seal Germany’s victory.
Denmark’s winless streak at major tournaments extended to eight matches, while Germany, unbeaten in their last eight games, awaits the winner of Spain vs. Georgia in the quarter-finals.
