Euro 2024: Matchday – Italy vs. Switzerland - Round of 16

Get ready for the first knockout match of Euro 2024, set to kick off on Saturday, June 29th, at 12 pm EST. It's Italy vs. Switzerland, and as usual, prepare for an absolute rollercoaster ride every time Italy plays. This team has definitely taken years off my life and probably every other Italian's life as well.

Italy's Lukewarm Performance

Italy's coming in hot—or rather lukewarm—after a wild 1-1 draw against Croatia. If it wasn't for Zaccagni's last-gasp beauty in the 97th minute, Italy wouldn't even be in the tournament anymore. That goal was a fucking masterclass from start to finish, had my boy looking like Del Piero in '06. But I'm gonna be honest, Italy needs to sort their shit out and start scoring some more goals, man. Three goals in the entire group stages and none of them coming from the strikers is an issue. It's not like the chances aren't there; they just aren't being capitalized on. Italy has never been a team to score a lot of goals, but they have to start finding the back of the net more. Waiting until the 97th minute is a heart attack waiting to happen. As for Italy’s defense, they better be tighter than a nun’s snatch, especially without the star CB Calafiori, because the Swiss are coming in with a vengeance.

Switzerland's Vengeance

On the other side of the pitch, we've got Switzerland. The Swiss may be known for their neutrality, but they’re anything but passive on the field. They held their ground in a 1-1 slugfest against Germany during the group stages, proving they’re not just here to yodel and eat chocolate. Last Euros, Italy gave them a 3-0 beating, but this year, the Swiss have beefed up. Will it be enough to get past the Azzurri? I sure hope not, but only time will tell.

Prediction

As for predictions, I'm sure by now everyone knows where I stand. So not much needs to be said other than, FORZA AZZURRI!!!!!! ANDIAMOOOOOOOOOOO