Switzerland became the first team to book their spot in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals after a surprising 2-0 victory over defending champions Italy.

The two sides, who last met in a tight 2023 World Cup qualifiers, were expected to be evenly matched. However, Switzerland dominated the opening 20 minutes with a conservative Italian approach.

This dominance paid off in the 37th minute when Remo Freuler collected a beautiful through ball, beat his defender, and slotted the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma. Buoyed by the lead, Switzerland continued to press for a second goal, while Italy’s attack remained largely ineffective.

The second half started with a bang for Switzerland as Ruben Vargas curled a stunning shot from the edge of the box that left Donnarumma with no chance. Italy, now needing two goals, struggled to create clear opportunities. Despite throwing everything forward in the final minutes, they couldn’t find a way past the Swiss defense.

This victory sends Switzerland to their fourth consecutive Euro quarter-final, while Italy’s title defense comes to a disappointing end.