Match Prediction: Scotland vs Switzerland UEFA European Championship 2024
Many view Switzerland as the strong favourite for this game, but these two teams have similar profiles. Scotland doesn't have a lot of history in the competition but they have now qualified for this tournament on consecutive campaigns and will be looking to really lay down a marker.
All games in this group can genuinely go either way. Both teams rely on a solid structure and quality moments from significant players. After all, resilience can only take a team so far.
How did they qualify?
Scotland entered the Euros after finishing second in Group A behind Spain and above teams like Norway and Georgia. Scotland managed to give the group leaders their only defeat, which shows what they were capable of, but the two draws and one loss in their final three games meant they had to settle for second place.
Switzerland were one of the teams that football fans expected a lot from in their qualifiers, but they were a little underwhelming. Switzerland directly qualified for the Euros, but they could have done better with the quality of their team. With one loss and five draws, they finished two points ahead of third-placed Israel and will be aspiring to deliver more convincing displays in the tournament.
Team Analysis
Many Scottish players have risen to fame with their recent performances in European leagues. Scotland can field a decent team with star players that could take them much farther than expected in the Euros. Some players do, however, stand out in the squad and they are the ones expected to make the biggest impact.
Switzerland has a very balanced team overall, with no player significantly outshining their teammates. Switzerland are a strong team that plays as a unit, bringing forward collaboration from everyone to maximise their potential on the pitch. Their players have made significant contributions to their clubs recently, and they hope to replicate their success in the Euros.
Players to watch
Many gritty players come to mind when we think of the Scottish national team, but there is one who truly stepped up for his team when they needed him the most.
- Scott McTominay: Despite playing as a defensive midfielder, he scored seven goals for his country and ended the qualifiers as Scotland's top scorer. He is one to watch if you’re backing his side for qualification to the next round.
Switzerland have many players who could significantly impact this tournament. We have selected a defender who knows what it is like to compete for big trophies.
- Manuel Akanji: This calm and silky defender recently won the treble with Manchester City and has been under the guidance of one of the greatest managers of all time, Pep Guardiola. Akanji is a versatile player who can play several positions on the field, and he can prove to be a valuable asset for the Swiss.
Prediction
Both teams are evenly matched in quality and form, which suggests a draw is a likely outcome. We expect this game to be decided by no more than one goal. However, Switzerland have a bit more quality in the attacking third, which might be the difference.