International soccer is an exhilarating spectacle where tactical wit, player abilities and national pride meet head on. When England and Switzerland clash, the results can often be remarkable.
Gareth Southgate may opt to switch up England’s back three formation by selecting Kyle Walker, John Stones and Ezri Konsa as central defenders; Kobbie Mainoo and Declan Rice could partner at wing-back; Kieran Trippier’s fitness will play a critical role in his selection process. Here we will discuss the main points of England National Football Team vs Switzerland National Football Team Lineups.
England National Football Team
England defeated Switzerland 2-1 after trailing Breel Embolo’s goal in the 75th minute and staged an unlikely comeback to reach Euro 2024 semi-finals. Gareth Southgate’s side are now the first team in this tournament to win an extra time game following extra time, but can they maintain momentum against Switzerland?
Match Preview
Both teams come into this Euro 2024 quarter-final matchup with something to prove. England have struggled defensively since their 2-0 victory against Italy while Switzerland are dangerous on the counter and led by Granit Xhaka possess an experienced squad and could win this game from set pieces alone.
England will benefit from Luke Shaw, a Manchester United defender who missed their last-16 match against Slovakia due to injury, returning. It is expected he will feature from the bench. Kieran Trippier may also be rested to allow Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa join John Stones and Kyle Walker in the back four.
Konsa’s arrival will allow England to alter their style of play, as they try to assert themselves on midfield and provide more attacking outlets for Harry Kane. Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham must keep a close watch on Switzerland attackers to prevent them from making runs towards goal.
Attacking Depth England are well equipped when it comes to their attacking options. Kane, Sterling and Vardy have combined for 21 goals so far at this tournament while Phil Foden and Joe Hart have shown glimpses of their quality while the inclusion of wing-backs such as Bukayo Saka and Dominic Solanke will put further strain on Switzerland’s defence.
Defense and Set Pieces
England had difficulty controlling midfield against Slovakia, so they must improve their organization and discipline in order to beat Switzerland. Both teams excel at dead ball situations; execution will ultimately decide who emerges victorious.
Switzerland came close to scoring during normal time when Xherdan Shaqiri’s free kick grazed the crossbar – his former Liverpool player must perform at his best for Switzerland to advance further.
Jordan Pickford makes several smart stops to deny Switzerland, including an outstanding block from Fabian Schar. Aebischer attempts a low cross for Embolo but Konsa is well positioned to stop it; Aebischer then attempts a pass through for Mainoo but again his pass is blocked by Konsa. Just when Mainoo turns inside and prepares to shoot from six yards out, Xhaka steps in and clears. What an excellent start the second half has been for England.
Also Read: Spain national football team vs england national football team lineups
