BERLIN — Defending champion Italy was eliminated from the European Championships after losing 2-0 to Switzerland in the round of 16 on Saturday.
Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas scored goals in each half to give Switzerland their first win over their southern neighbours in 31 years and set up a place in the quarter-finals to face either England or Slovakia in Dusseldorf on July 6.
Switzerland was dominant in terms of ball possession, shooting, attacking and passing.
When Italy fought back in the second half, Murat Yakin’s game plan worked to perfection, with Switzerland’s aggressive defence able to cope with Italy.
In the 37th minute, Freuler assisted Vargas’ cross with his first touch and smashed it in with his next to break the deadlock.
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Brer Embolo in a one-on-one situation but made a flying save to hit the post from a Fabian Riedler free kick just before the end of the first half.
But shortly after the break, Vargas curled a shot into the top right corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Switzerland defender Fabian Schar breathed a sigh of relief a few minutes later when his attempted headed clearance bounced off the post.
Fans tried to create a Mexican wave at the Olympic Stadium, but the Italian fans were not in the mood.
Italy pushed forward in search of a turnaround but could not find a breakthrough.
Gianluca Scamacca came closest when he hit the post but it looked offside in any case.
Italy coach Luciano Spalletti had spoken of his team’s “beautiful suits” before the match against Spain, but this time Italy failed to upset expectations after substitute Mattia Zaccagni scored a last-minute equaliser against Croatia.
