Speed Post News Network
Patna : Three-time champion Spain beat Switzerland 3-1 in penalty shootout in quarter-finals on July 2, 2021, late night, at Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia, to reach the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2020 surviving a scare. The match went to penalty shootout after the two teams remained locked 1-1 in the match duration with Switzerland defending brilliantly in extra time. Ranked 6th in the world, Spain will face Italy in semi-finals in Italy on July 7, 2021.
2010 FIFA World Cup winner Spain took an early lead with Switzerland’s Denis Zakaria scoring own goal (a deflection of Spain’s Jordi Alba’s shot into his own net) in the 8th minute. But, thereafter Switzerland, who had defeated France in Round of 16, fought gamely with their captain Xherdan Shaqiri scoring the equaliser in 68th minute taking the match to extra time and subsequently to penalty shootout.
Switzerland’s Remo Freuler was sent out in 77th minute which reduced it to 10-men team. Remo Frueler was shown Red Card. Two other Switzerland players were shown Yellow Cards compared to 1 of Spain. Spain had also needed extra time to defeat Croatia in last 16.
Spain lacked strong finish in front of goal. They missed two penalties too in the shootout.