Switzerland goalkeeper Yann Sommer insists the World Cup qualifier will be ‘very different’ to the match they lost 3-0 against Italy at UEFA EURO 2020.
It kicks off at St. Jakob-Park in Basel on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
This is a head-to-head at the top of the group, as the Azzurri have 10 points from four games, while Switzerland won both matches so far.
These teams also met just a couple of months ago, Italy winning 3-0 in the EURO 2020 group phase.
“We really did not appreciate that 3-0 defeat, as we left too many gaps and didn’t like the way we played,” confessed Sommer in his press conference.
“Tomorrow will be a very different game, with a new line-up and a new coach. We want to do much better.”
Switzerland are missing several big players, as Granit Xhaka tested positive for COVID-19, while Atalanta midfielder Remo Freuler is suspended, Breel Embolo, Xherdan Shaqiri and Mario Gavranovic injured.
“It has not been an easy week with all these absences, so we need to trust each other tomorrow. We can’t change the situation, that’s just the way it is, all we can do is make sure everyone contributes their part.”
Gianluigi Donnarumma was named not just best goalkeeper at EURO 2020, but also the most valuable player, so does Sommer consider the Italian to be the top man in his role?
“It’s a difficult question, there are many great goalkeepers. I like Donnarumma, he deserved his award at the Euros and helped Italy win the trophy. Of course, he is among the best in my view.”
I dunno how balanced they would be but imagine the pace and attacking potential of a 4-3-3 with Donnarumma, Calabria or Di Lorenzo, Bon + Chiello or Bastoni, Spinazzola, Zaniolo or Barella, Jorginho, Locatelli, Pellegrini or Insigne, Kean + Chiesa would be when all fit? These are exciting time’s for Italy. I hope they can perform + blow Switzerland away again but any kind of win would be a welcome relief to take the pressure off a bit. These groups are tough as Spain + the Netherlands are finding out.
@House Party Agree ….
Also adding to your last point .. as France are finding out too!