England vs. Switzerland: UEFA Euro 2024 Quarterfinal Match Preview
England and Switzerland are set for a thrilling UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal clash this weekend at Dusseldorf’s Merkur Spiel-Arena. With a spot in the semifinals on the line, both teams are gearing up for a fiercely competitive encounter.
England narrowly edged past Slovakia with a 2-1 victory in extra time, thanks to Jude Bellingham’s stunning overhead kick and Harry Kane’s crucial header. This win has set the stage for England’s 4th major tournament meeting with Switzerland, where they historically lead with two wins and a draw.
Team News
However, England will be without Marc Guehi, who is suspended after injuring his shoulder and receiving a critical yellow card against Slovakia. Southgate is considering a shift to a three-man defense, with Ezri Konsa likely to step in. Luke Shaw, despite being back in training, might still be sidelined, leaving the wing-back positions to Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka.
Switzerland arrives at this stage with an excellent performance, having knocked out defending champions Italy. Granit Xhaka’s minor adductor scare has been cleared, and he is expected to lead an unchanged lineup. Swiss coach Murat Yakin is also boosted by the return of Silvan Widmer from suspension, adding depth to their defensive and attacking options.
Key Players and Tactical Battle
The match promises an intriguing midfield duel between England’s Declan Rice and Switzerland’s Granit Xhaka. England’s projected lineup in a 3-5-2 formation includes:
- Goalkeeper: Pickford
- Defenders: Walker, Konsa, Stones
- Midfielders: Trippier, Bellingham, Rice, Foden, Saka
- Forwards: Kane, Toney
Switzerland is likely to field a 3-4-2-1 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Sommer
- Defenders: Schar, Rodriguez, Akanji
- Midfielders: Widmer, Xhaka, Freuler, Aebischer
- Forwards: Ndoye, Vargas
- Striker: Embolo
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