Switzerland coach Murat Yakin underlined his aspect’s ‘nice confidence’ forward of their Euro 2024 Spherical of 16 conflict with Italy, suggesting the crew ‘actually can’t wait’ for the match.
The Rossocrociati impressed of their Group A marketing campaign on the match, cruising previous Hungary 3-1 of their opening match earlier than being held to a tricky 1-1 draw with Scotland within the follow-up match. Of their closing outing of the group, they held hosts Germany to a formidable 1-1 draw, virtually edging out the win.
Issues have been far tougher for Italy, who managed to grind out a tense 2-1 victory over Albania of their first match at Euro 2024 earlier than struggling a painful 1-0 loss to Spain. Issues appeared dire in opposition to Croatia till a final gasp roller from Mattia Zaccagni secured a significant level, permitting the crew to progress.
Switzerland prepared for Italy duel
Chatting with Swiss media outlet Srf, Yakin first mentioned Switzerland’s mindset heading into their Spherical of 16 conflict with Italy.
“We’re taking part in for it. We are able to’t say we’re favourites, as a result of we’re dealing with Italy, however the draw in opposition to Germany has given us nice confidence and we will’t conceal.
“We adopted Italy’s match rigorously, analysing techniques and technique, we’ll delve deeper in as of late. We actually can’t wait. They’re unpredictable, however we’re ready. Even from a psychological viewpoint, now we have sufficient high quality to outlive a match like this.
“In actuality we don’t wish to fear an excessive amount of about Italy, in reality I believe the alternative is true as a result of issues are working effectively for us.”
He gave his ideas on the Azzurri and the way Switzerland are approaching the match.
“Italy has an excellent league that I actually like, very strategic and tactical. The nationwide crew have nice gamers, it’ll be a giant problem. We’re ourselves, however in fact we additionally must concentrate on the opponent, relying on the place the Italians’ strengths and weaknesses lie.
“They’ve alternative ways of taking part in, which makes them harmful. However they’ll even be desirous about us. We’re in good type, we’re unpredictable and we’ll attempt to get one thing out of this recreation.”
Lastly, Yakin mentioned the strengths of his Switzerland aspect and the influence of the followers.
“The excessive depth and willingness to run have made us sturdy not too long ago. Our system, our technique works and now we have the aspect of shock on our aspect, and naturally our nice followers. When even Manuel Akanji or Granit Xhaka spotlight the help, that basically means one thing.
“Even in opposition to Germany, the place they have been clearly within the minority, our followers have been so loud and dominant. It was nice how they supported us for 90 minutes.”
