Switzerland continues to show they are for real at the Under 17 World Cup. After taking out Mexico, Brazil and Japan in the opening stages they defeated Germany in the quarters. Next up was a game Italy side that was lucky to slip past the USA in the round of 16.
Switzerland showed their class once again, but it was not as smooth as in previous rounds. Italy started brightly and looked for the opening goal early as they send several dangerous crosses into the Swiss box. Switzerland weathered the storm and eventually pushed their way into the match. Ben Khalifa provided the opening goal for Switzerland as he volleyed home a wonderful cross from Ricardo Rodriguez.
Italy would answer shortly after though when Federico Carraro curled a perfectly taken free kick around the wall and into the Swiss goal. The game would go to the half 1-1.
Both sides opened the 2nd half with intent upon grabbing the important lead goal. Chances were plenty as the play flowed back and forth. It was was the Swiss that would grab the lead in the 61st minute. Oliver Buff was the hero as he scored off a corner kick.
Again Italy would respond quickly. Right off the kickoff Italy was in the Swiss penalty area where Frederic Veseli took down Beretta and a penalty was awarded along with Veseli being sent off. Marco Fossati would take the penalty, but not hit it well at all. Swiss keeper Siegrist smothered the poor attempt and Switzerland was on its way. Despite having a man advantage, Italy would never really threaten again and Switzerland won 2-1 to advance to the Under 17 World Cup semifinals.
0 comments:
Post a Comment