Euro 2024: Switzerland Advances to the Quarterfinal as Defending Champion Italy Crash Out

Italy's attempt to defend their European Championship title ended in a disappointing result during the round of 16 of Euro 2024 on Saturday. They suffered a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland, marking their first exit before the quarterfinal stage in 20 years. You can check out our Euro 2024 knockout picks here. 

Switzerland was impressive in the group stage but was denied top spot in Group A only by a last-gasp Germany equalizer. The Swiss continued their impressive performance against Italy in the first knockout stage, with goals in each half from Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas sealed the Swiss a comfortable knockout victory. Freuler demonstrated excellent control in the box after being found by Vargas. He struck the ball low into the net in the 37th minute. Shortly after the start of the second half, Ruben Vargas curled a superb shot into the far corner, highlighting Switzerland's dominance.

Switzerland sealed their place in the quarterfinals of the Euros for just the second time, and they will now face either England or Slovakia in the quarterfinal at Duesseldorf on July 6.