UEFA EURO 2024 Group Stage
20 June, 2024 - Indian Date
Cologne Stadium
MATCH TIMES
India
12:30 AM
UAE
11:00 PM
Saudi Arabia
09:45 PM
FT: Switzerland [1-1] Scotland
Scotland possible starting lineup: Gunn; Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Ralston, Gilmour, McTominay, Robertson; McGinn, Christie; Shankland
Switzerland possible starting lineup: Sommer; Schar, Akanji, Rodriguez; Widmer, Xhaka, Freuler, Aebischer; Vargas, Ndoye; Duah
Match Preview
Scotland will be eager to bounce back after their heavy 5-1 defeat to Germany as they face Switzerland in their next Euro 2024 Group A fixture in Cologne. This match is crucial for Steve Clarke's side, who are currently at the bottom of the group standings and face potential elimination if they lose or even draw.
Germany's dominant performance in the opening match left Scotland with much to reflect on, especially after playing with 10 men for the entire second half due to Ryan Porteous's red card. Goals from Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, Niclas Fullkrug, and Emre Can highlighted the gulf in class. Scotland did manage to score once through an Antonio Rudiger own goal, but Can's long-range effort quickly dashed any hopes of a comeback.
In contrast, Switzerland started their campaign on a positive note with a 3-1 victory over Hungary. First-time scorers Kwadwo Duah and Michel Aebischer gave the Swiss a solid lead, and despite a brief scare from Barnabas Varga's goal, Breel Embolo's late strike sealed the win. Embolo's return from a long injury layoff was particularly heartening for Switzerland as they look to secure a top-two spot in the group with another win.
Switzerland, under Murat Yakin, have been in good form, losing just one of their last 15 matches and winning three of their last four. This consistency provides them a strong foundation as they prepare to face Scotland, a team they last defeated in a friendly match back in 2006.
For Scotland, the immediate goal is to avoid a repeat of their opening match's embarrassment and to keep their hopes of advancing alive. A victory is crucial to stay in contention, and even a third-place finish could potentially see them through to the knockout stages, although their recent form—just one win in their last 10 matches—raises concerns about their prospects.
Wednesday's match will be a true test of character for the Tartan Army as they seek redemption and aim to restore some pride against a confident Swiss side.