UEFA Euro: Italy vs. Switzerland -- A Look at Their Last Three Encounters

Will Italy continue their dominance over Switzerland in major tournaments, or will the Swiss finally write a new chapter in this historic rivalry?

The aroma of history hangs heavy in the air as Italy and Switzerland prepare to clash in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. Their matches are consistently characterised by a fascinating blend of tactical awareness, dogged defending, and moments of attacking brilliance.

While Italy may possess a more illustrious football pedigree, Switzerland has consistently proven to be a tough opponent, a team capable of rising to the occasion and earning positive results against their larger neighbor. Let's delve into their recent meetings, offering a glimpse into what promises to be another fiercely contested battle.

A scrappy draw in World Cup Qualifiers (Italy 1-1 Switzerland, November 2021)

Italy's serene stroll towards automatic qualification for the World Cup hit a bump on a chilly November night in Rome. A youthful Swiss side, spearheaded by the pacey Noah Okafor, stunned the home crowd by taking an early lead. The Azzurri, still basking in the afterglow of their Euro 2020 triumph, were jolted awake. Their response was swift, a cleverly disguised free kick finding the head of Giovanni Di Lorenzo for the equalizer. 

The game continued in a similar vein, with both sides cancelling each other out. Late drama unfolded when a penalty was awarded to Italy, but Jorginho, usually reliable from the spot, blazed his effort over the bar. The final whistle blew on a 1-1 draw, leaving a slightly frustrated Italian side and a jubilant Swiss team to ponder what could have been.

Unbeaten Italy held at bay by Switzerland (Italy 0-0 Switzerland, September 2023)

History seemed to repeat itself just over a year later, this time in a World Cup qualifier on Swiss soil. Italy, now boasting a record-breaking unbeaten run, arrived in Basel brimming with confidence. However, the Swiss, well-versed in frustrating their Italian neighbours, had other plans. 

The midfield dynamo of Italy

The Azzurri dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge to break down a resolute Swiss defense.  Frustration mounted as Jorginho, Italy's penalty specialist, once again failed to convert from the spot. The final whistle blew on another goalless draw, extending Switzerland's unbeaten run against Italy to three games and leaving Roberto Mancini's men with a point to prove at Euro 2024.

Locatelli double seals dominant Italian victory (Italy 3-0 Switzerland, Euro 2020)

The most recent meeting between these two sides paints a contrasting picture. Italy, riding a wave of euphoria after their Euro 2020 group stage win against Turkey, faced Switzerland in a must-win encounter. This time, the script flipped dramatically. The Azzurri dominated from the outset, and a young midfielder named Manuel Locatelli stole the show. 

Locatelli steals the show

His first goal was a poacher's finish, tapping in from close range after a teasing Domenico Berardi cross. His second was a statement of intent, a powerful left-footed strike that left Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer with no chance. Ciro Immobile added a late flourish with a stunning long-range effort, putting the icing on the cake for a dominant Italian display.

The stage is set for another chapter

These recent encounters paint a picture of two evenly matched teams capable of producing tight and tense battles. Italy will be looking to replicate their Euro 2020 performance, hoping to leverage their experience and tactical nous. Switzerland, on the other hand, will be determined to cause an upset. Their resolute defence and ability to exploit Italian mistakes on the counterattack could be key.