Match Prediction: Switzerland vs Germany UEFA European Championship 2024
The hosts will hope to conclude their group stage with a strong performance in Frankfurt. In an ideal world, Switzerland would have secured its place in the knockout stages at this point. However, considering the strength of this group, there is every chance they will need to get something from the hosts and the strongest team in the group.
How did they qualify?
Switzerland played in the qualifiers and were part of Group I, which featured many strong teams. They were expected to be the dominant side in the group, but they finished second behind Romania and only two points above Israel, who were third. Switzerland, with its five draws and one loss, could have easily missed out on the tournament. However, results favouring them in other matches ultimately secured their qualification.
Germany automatically qualified for the tournament as the hosts and, unlike their counterparts, were not involved in any stressful qualifiers. They played a series of friendlies before the Euros to up their preparation and test out their tactics under new coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Team Analysis
Switzerland scored the most goals in Group I on their path to qualification, but their defence was not as strong as one would have hoped. They conceded 11 goals in the process, which is the main reason they struggled to convert those draws into wins. Switzerland were expected to do better, given the quality players on their side, who play for some of the best teams in Europe. Regardless, they will be given another chance to prove themselves and do better this time around in the Euros.
Germany’s strength lies not in a few exceptional players but in the depth of its squad, which has many talented individuals. The team has changed significantly in the past decade since they won the World Cup, and they now have a number of young players who are all hungry to prove themselves on the biggest stage.
Players to watch
It is tough to pick one or two players who will stand out for Germany, given how balanced their squad is in terms of talent. Regardless, two players are anticipated to deliver standout performances in the upcoming tournament.
- Jamal Musiala: Many consider the 21-year-old to be the next big thing, and while he has showcased glimpses of talent at the top level for Germany, it was primarily in a developmental capacity. This tournament presents a crucial opportunity for the youngster to firmly establish himself as one of Germany’s best.
- Kai Havertz: The German who plays in North London has had a stellar season with Arsenal this year and has proven many people wrong. Havertz is finally living up to his potential, and fans will be hoping that he brings his club form to the national team.
While Switzerland does not have a star-studded squad, it does have some players who can make a huge difference in any team they play for.
- Granit Xhaka: The former Arsenal player was the engine of the Bayer Leverkusen side that broke all kinds of records this season. He has proven to be a vital asset and a reliable team player in the past and is one to watch out for from the Swiss team.
Prediction
This game will be a tough one to call, but Germany has an edge in this fixture, given its squad depth and home advantage. Switzerland will not go down easily, but considering the circumstances, it is unlikely that they will come out on top.