Switzerland take on Italy to kick start the last 16 round of Euro 2024, and this looks set to be a very tight, and very intriguing game. Both sides finished second in their group, but have landed on what is seen as the easier half of the draw, so know a win here would give them a chance to go well.
Switzerland Form GuideSwitzerland went unbeaten in the group stages, finishing second in Group A behind Germany. They won their opening game against Hungary 3-1, and then drew 1-1 with both Scotland and then most recently Germany. They were just minutes away from beating Germany in that final game, and if they had won that, they would have been group winners.
I've been fairly impressed with the Swiss, and I do think their last game against Germany was their best. They've failed to keep a clean sheet in any game so far, but have looked a goal threat, which is of course going to be important as we go through the tournament, with more and more games being tight.
Italy Form GuideItaly finished second in Group B behind Spain, and they ended the group stage with four points, after one win, one draw and one defeat. They were outclassed by Spain in their only loss, picked up a win against Albania, and drew with Croatia. But that doesn't tell all the story, this is a team with plenty to work on, and let's not forget, they are defending champions.
They went behind against Albania early, and although produced quality to come back, the second half, they never really kicked on. Then while a draw against Croatia was enough, it was a late equaliser that got them that, and they didn't look very good before scoring that goal, against a Croatian side who have largely been disappointing themselves in the tournament.
Match PredictionI see a really tight game here. Knockout football is likely to have an impact on both teams, and both will be fine with what they've done so far, but know that more is needed if they want to succeed. It's tough to pick a winner, but I could see this going the distance, so I will back the draw here in Saturday's game.
