Switzerland Soar to Victory in Euro 2024 Opener

Switzerland Soar to Victory in Euro 2024 Opener

Switzerland made a resounding start to their Euro 2024 campaign, securing a convincing 3-1 victory over Hungary in Cologne on June 15. Murat Yakin's side showcased their attacking prowess, scoring three goals in the first half to set the tone for the match.

Kwadwo Duah, making only his second international appearance, opened the scoring for Switzerland in the 12th minute. The London-born forward capitalized on a perfectly weighted pass from Michel Aebischer to slot the ball past Hungary's goalkeeper, Peter Gulacsi.

Aebischer, a Bologna midfielder, doubled Switzerland's lead just before halftime with a stunning long-range strike. The 25-year-old curled the ball into the far corner from 25 yards out, leaving Gulacsi with no chance.

Hungary managed to pull one back in the second half through Barnabas Varga, who headed home a cross from Dominik Szoboszlai in the 66th minute. However, Switzerland's lead was restored in stoppage time when Breel Embolo chipped the ball over Gulacsi to seal the victory.

The win was a welcome boost for Switzerland, who had endured a disappointing Euro 2020 campaign. They were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Spain on penalties after beating France in the round of 16.

Switzerland's victory was also a testament to the team's resilience, as they had been plagued by reports of a rift between Yakin and his players over tactics. However, the team captain, Granit Xhaka, insisted that the air had been cleared before the tournament, and the players were fully behind their manager.

Switzerland will face Scotland in their second Group A match on Wednesday, while Hungary will take on hosts Germany on the same day.

Tags: #Euro2024, #Switzerland, #Hungary, #KwadwoDuah, #MichelAebischer

Read more