Switzerland Football Team's Journey to Success in Major Tournaments

I still remember watching Switzerland’s opening match in their latest major tournament campaign, and the commentator’s words stuck with me: “Malakas pa rin sila kasi naka 2-0 na agad sila. Good start agad sila.” That phrase—roughly translating to how strong they looked after going 2-0 up so quickly—captures something essential about this Swiss side. They don’t just show up; they seize the moment. As someone who’s followed European football for over a decade, I’ve seen Switzerland evolve from a disciplined but unspectacular team into one that can genuinely unsettle giants. Their journey in recent tournaments—especially the Euros and World Cup qualifiers—reflects a fascinating blend of tactical intelligence, mental resilience, and that crucial ability to start strong when it matters most.

Let’s rewind a bit. For years, Switzerland was viewed as a tough opponent but not quite a contender. I recall their 2014 World Cup run—efficient, yes, but lacking the spark to go deep. Fast forward to Euro 2020 (held in 2021), and something had shifted. They topped their group with 5 points, including a 3-1 dismantling of Turkey, and then pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest shocks by eliminating France on penalties. That match, in particular, showcased their growth. They trailed 3-1 with less than 15 minutes left, yet fought back to level it. That kind of comeback doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built on a foundation of belief, something manager Vladimir Petković instilled over his seven-year tenure. Petković’s approach was pragmatic but flexible; he knew when to sit deep and when to press high, and he trusted players like Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka to lead on the pitch.

What’s really impressed me, though, is how Switzerland has maintained consistency while integrating younger talent. Take the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, where they edged out Italy to top their group—finishing with 18 points from 8 games and conceding just two goals in the process. Those aren’t just good numbers; they’re elite-level stats. And it’s not all about defense. The emergence of players like Breel Embolo and Manuel Akanji has added a new dimension. Embolo’s pace and physicality give them a direct outlet, while Akanji’s composure in defense allows the midfield to push higher. I’ve always believed that the best teams balance stability with spontaneity, and Switzerland does that better than most mid-tier nations. They’re organized without being rigid, creative without being reckless.

Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth. I remember their Nations League campaign in 2023, where they struggled initially against Spain and Portugal, losing 1-0 and 4-0 respectively. Those matches exposed their limitations against top-tier possession sides. But here’s the thing—they bounced back. A 2-1 win over the Czech Republic and a hard-fought draw against Spain showed character. That resilience, to me, is what separates this Swiss team from earlier iterations. They learn from setbacks rather than crumbling under them. And let’s not forget the role of experience. Players like Yann Sommer and Xhaka have been through multiple cycles; they know how to manage games, when to slow the tempo, and when to inject urgency. It’s that veteran savvy, combined with youthful energy, that makes them so dangerous.

From a tactical standpoint, Switzerland’s flexibility is a huge asset. They often shift between a 3-4-2-1 and a 4-2-3-1 depending on the opponent. Against stronger teams, they’re comfortable ceding possession and hitting on the counter—a strategy that paid off against France in 2021. Against smaller sides, they take control, using their technical midfield to dictate play. What I love about this approach is how it maximizes their strengths. They don’t have a squad packed with superstars, but they have a cohesive unit where everyone understands their role. Shaqiri, for instance, might not start every game anymore, but his creativity in the final third remains a game-changer. Similarly, Remo Freuler’s work rate in midfield often goes unnoticed, but it’s vital to their press.

Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about Switzerland’s chances in upcoming tournaments. With Murat Yakin taking over as manager, there’s a fresh tactical voice, yet the core principles remain. The squad depth is improving too—players like Noah Okafor and Fabian Rieder offer exciting options off the bench. If they can maintain their strong starts—like that 2-0 lead the commentator highlighted—they’ll keep causing problems for anyone they face. Personally, I’d love to see them make a deep run in the next Euros; they’ve earned that breakthrough. In a football landscape often dominated by the same few nations, Switzerland’s rise is a reminder that smart coaching, team chemistry, and a fearless attitude can level the playing field. They may not have the glamour of France or the history of Italy, but they’ve carved out an identity that commands respect—and that, in my book, is the mark of a truly successful team.