Italy and Switzerland, familiar rivals, are set to clash in the Euro 2024 last-16 match in Berlin this Saturday. Despite their historical ties and shared border, which includes Italian as one of Switzerland’s official languages, sentiments of camaraderie will be set aside on the field.
These two nations have faced each other 61 times, making them each other’s most frequent opponents. Switzerland has managed to defeat Italy only eight times, with their last victory dating back to 1993, but they have shown impressive form in Germany.
Switzerland narrowly missed out on topping Group A after conceding a late equalizer against hosts Germany in their final group match. Their performance demonstrated a fearless approach against any opponent in this tournament.
On the other hand, Italy struggled to advance, needing a late goal to secure a 1-1 draw against Croatia. Unlike their dominant display in Euro 2020, where they comfortably defeated Switzerland 3-0, the defending champions have not yet hit top form.
The upcoming match in Berlin holds additional significance as it could feature up to three players from Bologna, a club that made waves in Serie A last season. However, Italy will be without Riccardo Calafiori, who is suspended. Calafiori, who has since returned to Italy after a stint with Basel, is one of several Swiss players with ties to both nations.
Remo Freuler, who spent six years at Atalanta and loaned to Bologna from Nottingham Forest last season, emphasized the personal importance of this match.
“For me, this is not just any game. In Italy, I built my career and found a place to live with my family,” Freuler remarked, highlighting the emotional significance of facing his former countrymen on the pitch.
