EURO 2024 Roundup, Matchday 14
Here is a summary of the matches that took place during Matchday 14 of EURO 2024, highlighting the outcomes and standout performances.
Switzerland 2-0 Italy
Italy, the reigning European champions, were eliminated from Euro 2024 in the Round of 16 by a strong Switzerland team. Switzerland, who had previously defeated world champions France at the same stage three years ago, displayed confidence and control on the field. Despite their dominance, they struggled to create clear scoring opportunities until Breel Embolo forced a save from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy’s only notable chance in the first half came from Federico Chiesa, whose shot was blocked by Manuel Akanji. Switzerland continued to press forward, with shots from Fabian Schär and Ricardo Rodriguez leading to Remo Freuler’s goal, assisted by Ruben Vargas.
Donnarumma made a good save by deflecting Fabian Rieder’s free-kick onto the post just before halftime, but he couldn’t prevent Vargas from scoring a spectacular curled goal into the top corner shortly after the second half began. Gianluca Scamacca hit the post as Italy tried to get back into the game. Despite making substitutions that threatened the Swiss defense, strong performances from Akanji and Schär ensured the result was never in doubt. Switzerland easily defeated Italy for the first time in nine matches between the two teams. Luciano Spalletti’s future may be in question after Italy’s poor performance in Germany, while either England or Slovakia will be the next opponents for Switzerland in the quarterfinals.
Germany 2-0 Denmark
Germany made it to the quarter-finals of a major tournament for the first time since 2016 by securing a 2-0 victory over Denmark in Dortmund, despite a pause in play due to a lightning storm. Denmark’s goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, made several saves in the first 20 minutes as Germany dominated the game. However, Denmark started to pose a threat on the counter-attack, with Christian Eriksen and Joakim Mæhle coming close to scoring. The first half was interrupted by a lightning storm, but play later resumed with both teams creating chances. Kai Havertz missed a clear opportunity, while Denmark had a goal disallowed for a marginal offside after a VAR review.
Joachim Andersen gave away a penalty for handling a cross from David Raum. Havertz then scored from the spot to put Germany ahead. Following this, Havertz displayed some impressive skill but missed the target with a chip shot. Germany later secured a second goal through a brilliant pass from Schlotterbeck to Musiala, who calmly finished into the far corner. Denmark struggled to recover from this, resulting in their winless streak at major tournaments extending to eight matches. In contrast, Germany remains unbeaten in their last eight games and will face the winner of Spain vs Georgia in the quarter-finals.
