The Stade de Genève
The UEFA Nations League 2024/25 is set to begin, and one of the most anticipated matchups is Switzerland vs Spain. The visitors, Spain, not only come as reigning UEFA Nations League champions but also just clinched the Euro 2024 title. Meanwhile, Switzerland, who reached the quarterfinals of Euro 2024, are ready to surprise once more. Join V9Bet as we analyze both teams' readiness and give you an in-depth look at this exciting matchup
Switzerland is preparing to host Spain in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday, September 8, 2024. Spain enters this tournament as defending champions after their victory over Croatia in the 2022/23 final. Switzerland, on the other hand, finished third in Group A2 last season. Interestingly, both teams were in the same group last time, exchanging wins and losses, so this encounter is set to be anything but easy for the titleholders, especially as they play at the Stade de Genève.
The Stade de Genève
The Stade de Genève, located in Geneva, is the venue for this UEFA Nations League clash. With a seating capacity of 30,084, it opened on April 30, 2003, and serves as the home ground for Servette FC in the Swiss Super League. The stadium is also commonly used for international events and even rugby matches. In 2016, a hybrid of real and artificial grass was installed to accommodate multiple sports events.
Switzerland impressed many in Euro 2024, beginning with a 3-1 victory over Hungary, followed by 1-1 draws against Scotland and Germany, earning them a spot in the knockout stages. In the Round of 16, they defeated Italy 2-0, but their journey ended in the quarterfinals after a penalty shootout loss to England following a 1-1 draw in extra time.
Last 5 Matches:
Spain entered Euro 2024 with modest expectations due to a recent coaching change. However, they exceeded all expectations by clinching their fourth European Championship. After winning all three group-stage matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania, Spain breezed through the Round of 16, defeating Georgia 4-1. Despite facing tournament hosts Germany in the quarterfinals, Spain emerged victorious 2-1 in extra time and then defeated France 2-1 in the semifinals. Spain claimed the title by beating England 2-1 in the final.
Last 5 Matches:
Granit Xhaka: The Swiss Midfield Maestro
Switzerland coach Murat Yakin will have to do without star goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who retired from international football. Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Jonas Omlin will be called up for the first time in two years, but he is expected to serve as the third-choice keeper behind Gregor Kobel and Yvon Mvogo. New faces like Gregory Wüthrich and Bésir Omeragic will bolster the squad.
Projected Switzerland Starting XI (3-4-3):
Gregor Kobel; Fabian Schär, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodríguez; Fabian Rieder, Remo Freuler, Granit Xhaka, Michel Aebischer; Kwadoh Duah, Breel Embolo, Ruben Vargas
Rodri: Spain’s Playmaker in Midfield
Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente faces some challenges with injuries, notably to first-choice goalkeeper Unai Simón, paving the way for Arsenal’s David Raya to start. Alvaro Morata and Mikel Merino are also out, with Yeremy Pino stepping in. New faces like Oscar Mingueza, Pau Torres, and Alex Garcia are joining the squad.
Projected Spain Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
David Raya; Dani Carvajal, Robin Le Normand, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams; Mikel Oyarzabal
IM Sports or Inplay Matrix has set the handicap odds at Spain -0.75, a tempting option considering Spain’s strong lineup compared to Switzerland, who are still reworking their attack. For Over/Under bettors, the line is set at 2.25, a low number given Spain’s attacking prowess, making the over a solid choice, even though Switzerland is known for their defensive style.
Spain is in excellent form, with a young and disciplined squad rich in technical skills. Meanwhile, Switzerland has undergone numerous changes, with the absence of Yann Sommer expected to affect their defense. V9Bet believes that Spain will control the game and eventually secure a win, making them the safer bet for this UEFA Nations League clash.
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Luis de la Fuente has reignited hope for Spanish football, with fans looking forward to a potential golden era for "La Roja." Their primary goal is to defend their UEFA Nations League title before heading into the 2026 World Cup in North America. However, Switzerland, under the leadership of Murat Yakin, is eager to reassert themselves on the international stage. With teamwork and spirit, they will be no easy opponent for any European giant.