Watch Scotland vs Switzerland full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 19th June 2024
The referee for this match is I. Kružliak
Game played at Cologne Stadium
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group A, Season 2024
Shaqiri’s Stunner Denies Scotland Historic Win in Group A Encounter
Scotland were denied their first UEFA European Championship win since 1996 as Xherdan Shaqiri’s spectacular strike helped Switzerland secure a 1-1 comeback draw in their Group A match. This result keeps Scotland’s hopes alive for progressing to the knockout stages for the first time in a major tournament.
Scotland’s Early Lead
Scotland, looking to bounce back from their heavy defeat to Germany, found the perfect response by taking an early lead against Switzerland. After weathering initial pressure, the Scots broke on a counter-attack in the 10th minute. Callum McGregor’s composed hold-up play in the box set up Scott McTominay, whose shot was deflected into the net by Fabian Schär, giving Scotland a dream start.
Switzerland’s Response
Switzerland, fielding their oldest-ever starting XI at the Euros, displayed their experience and composure. Just ten minutes later, Xherdan Shaqiri capitalized on a loose back-pass from Anthony Ralston. With a swerving first-time finish from the edge of the area, Shaqiri beat a fully-stretched Angus Gunn, becoming the first player to score in the last three Euros and World Cup finals. The Swiss continued to press, with Dan Ndoye having a goal disallowed for offside after Gunn fumbled a save.
Second Half Drama
The second half saw both teams pushing for a winner. Dan Ndoye again threatened the Scottish defense, forcing a fingertip save from Gunn after racing onto a looping ball from Ruben Vargas. Scotland almost regained the lead when Grant Hanley’s towering header from Andrew Robertson’s free-kick hit the post.
In a frantic end-to-end finish, Switzerland thought they had scored again when substitute Breel Embolo finished under Gunn, only for the offside flag to deny them once more.
Scotland’s Resilience
Despite the draw, Scotland showed significant improvement from their opening match, delivering a resilient performance that kept their knockout stage hopes alive. A point against a tough Swiss side is a positive result for Steve Clarke’s men, especially after their heavy defeat to Germany.
Switzerland’s Consistency
Switzerland, grateful for Shaqiri’s moment of brilliance, remain unbeaten in 13 of their last 15 major tournament group games. This result keeps them in second place in Group A, continuing their consistent performance in international competitions.
Key Match Highlights
- Early Scottish Goal: Scott McTominay’s deflected shot gave Scotland an early lead, providing hope after their previous defeat.
- Shaqiri’s Equalizer: Xherdan Shaqiri’s stunning finish from the edge of the area leveled the score for Switzerland.
- Disallowed Goals: Both Dan Ndoye and Breel Embolo had goals disallowed for offside, maintaining the 1-1 scoreline.
- Near Misses: Grant Hanley’s header hit the post in a crucial moment for Scotland.
This draw leaves Group A wide open as the teams head into their final group stage matches. Scotland will need to build on this resilient performance as they prepare for their crucial encounter against Hungary, while Switzerland will look to secure their progression with another solid performance.