Euro 2024 Knockout: Switzerland Shocks Italy, Germany Defeats Denmark

The Euro 2024 knockout rounds began on Saturday, with Switzerland and Germany securing their spots in the quarter-finals. Switzerland shocked the defending champions, Italy, with a 2-0 win in Berlin. Later, Germany also triumphed by the same scoreline against Denmark, moving closer to potential success on home soil.

Switzerland's victory over Italy was largely due to Ruben Vargas' outstanding performance. He assisted Remo Freuler's opening goal and then scored a remarkable goal himself. Vargas became the first Swiss player to both score and assist in a knockout match of a major tournament since records began in 1966.

Vargas' goal came just 27 seconds into the second half, making it the second-fastest goal in the second half of a Euros match. Switzerland will face either England or Slovakia in the quarter-finals, marking their consecutive appearance in the last eight after previously struggling to advance past the group stage.

Italy's early exit continues a trend where reigning champions have been eliminated in the round of 16 at each of the last three European Championships. Italy conceded more goals at Euro 2024 (five) than they did during their entire campaign at Euro 2020 when they allowed only four goals en route to winning the title.

In Dortmund, Germany defeated Denmark 2-0 amid VAR drama and a weather delay. Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala scored for Germany, with Musiala netting his third goal of the tournament. This achievement puts him level with Georges Mikautadze in the Golden Boot race.

Musiala has now scored more goals at this tournament than he did in his first 29 appearances for Germany. Only Wayne Rooney has scored more goals aged 21 or younger at the Euros than Musiala. Germany has reached their first quarter-final at a major tournament since Euro 2016.

Manuel Neuer continues to set records with every appearance. He now holds the record for most caps at European Championships for Germany (19), surpassing Bastian Schweinsteiger. It was also his 39th appearance at major tournaments overall, equalling Schweinsteiger's tally.

Denmark's Struggles Continue

Denmark failed to replicate their run to the semi-finals of Euro 2020 after another lacklustre performance against Germany. They have not won any of their last eight games at major tournaments, recording four draws and four defeats during this period.

The Azzurri ended a streak of six knockout stage games without defeat (90 minutes only), with their last such loss occurring in the 2012 final against Spain. This is also the first time Italy has lost more than one match at a single edition of the Euros.

The Swiss team's side of the draw will be wary after they eliminated Italy, thanks to Vargas' exceptional display. Despite being defending champions, Italy struggled throughout Euro 2024 and were not considered favourites from the start.

Germany's unbeaten run at Euro 2024 now stands at four games, their longest streak since Euro 2016 when they reached the semi-finals. The hosts are aiming for success on home soil as they progress further into the tournament.

The knockout rounds have already provided thrilling moments and unexpected outcomes, setting an exciting stage for what lies ahead in Euro 2024.