Switzerland vs Italy Prediction: Back this one going into Extra Time

The Group Stages are in the rearview mirror and the knockout matches start on Saturday teatime as Switzerland entertain Italy in the 17:00 kick-off, live on BBC One.

This is expected to be a tight encounter and our Serie A Betting Expect thinks this one could well be heading for Extra Time. I think he may well be right. Check out all of his Switzerland vs Italy Predictions in his full match preview below...

As Euro 2024 advances into the knockout stages, all eyes are on the first Round of 16 clash between Switzerland and Italy in Berlin.

Italy has had a rollercoaster journey to the knockout stages. The Azzurri started with a solid performance against Albania, securing a win. However, their form wavered in subsequent matches, with a lacklustre display against Spain and a more spirited second half against Croatia. Despite these inconsistencies, Italy managed to secure their place in the knockout rounds, thanks in part to a last-minute goal by Zaccagni against Croatia, which provided a much-needed boost in morale.

Switzerland has been one of the surprises of the tournament. Unbeaten in their group, they showcased their defensive solidity and tactical acumen, notably holding the host nation Germany to a draw. The Swiss team, led by coach Murat Yakin, has displayed resilience and a well-organized structure, making them a tough opponent for any team. Their success has been built on a robust defence and effective pressing, qualities that will be crucial against a historically strong Italian side.

Luciano Spalletti has emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and composure, particularly in high-stakes matches. He has also highlighted the need for Italy to demonstrate their superiority on the pitch, urging his players to replicate their best moments from the group stages. Spalletti's experience and tactical acumen will be vital in navigating this knockout fixture.

On the other hand, Yakin's approach has been one of meticulous preparation and pragmatism. He has instilled a strong defensive ethic within his team while also encouraging fluidity in attack. Yakin's ability to adapt his tactics based on the opposition has been a hallmark of Switzerland's success so far. His understanding of the Italian players, many of whom ply their trade in Serie A, could provide Switzerland with an edge in this encounter.

Team News

Italy are expected to line up in a 3-5-2 formation. This setup allows them to leverage their strengths in midfield while providing flexibility in attack and defence. The return of Federico Chiesa and Gianluca Scamacca to the starting lineup is a significant boost for Italy's offensive capabilities.

Defensively, Italy will rely on the experience of players like Alessandro Bastoni and Matteo Darmian. Spalletti's strategy focuses on maintaining a compact shape, pressing high, and quickly transitioning from defense to attack. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Jorginho's role as a deep-lying playmaker pivotal in dictating the tempo and linking up play.

Switzerland's tactical approach revolves around a 3-4-3 formation. This formation allows them to have a solid defensive base while also providing width in attack.

Key players include Xherdan Shaqiri, whose creativity and experience are vital in the attacking third, and Granit Xhaka, who anchors the midfield with his vision and passing range. The forward line, led by Ruben Vargas and Breel Embolo, is expected to exploit any spaces left by the Italian defense.

Defensively, the absence of Silvan Widmer due to suspension will be a challenge, but the inclusion of Steven Zuber on the flanks is expected to compensate for this loss.

Switzerland vs Italy Odds

The defending champions are favorites (7/5) to win within 90 minutes on Saturday. Italy has only lost one of their last 12 games and are unbeaten against the Swiss since May 1993. However, Italy has won only one (3-0 at Euro 2021) of the last five games played against Switzerland and finished behind Yakin’s men in the last World Cup qualifying group.

Switzerland is unbeaten in the last seven games, and a win for Xhaka & Co. pays 23/10. Similar odds (2/1) for the draw, which might be the most likely outcome in Berlin. Switzerland has scored five times, one more than at Euro 2021.

They were only two minutes away from topping Group A and were unfortunate not to go 2-0 against Germany due to a marginal offside. Eight of Switzerland's last 10 competitive matches have seen both teams score, however, a low-scoring affair is expected with odds of 1/2 for Under 2.5 Goals and 6/4 for Over 2.5.

Draw @ 2/1

Both Switzerland and Italy have shown solid defensive structures and a propensity for tight, closely contested matches. Italy's inconsistent form in the group stage and Switzerland's resilience suggest that this match could easily end in a stalemate within the 90 minutes.

Historically, knockout stage matches often lean towards being more cautious, further supporting the likelihood of a draw.

In fact, betting on draws in all knockout stage matches at both the Euros and World Cup since 1998 has proven profitable. A consistent bet of a single unit on the draw across the 58 Euro and 90 World Cup knockout stage matches since 1998 would have yielded a profit of just under 46 units, equating to a 28% return on investment (ROI).

Under 2.5 Goals and Under 10.5 Corners @ 6/5 via #PickYourPunt

With both teams likely to adopt a cautious approach, a low-scoring game is highly probable. Italy's 3-5-2 formation emphasizes a strong midfield presence and solid defensive play, while Switzerland's 3-4-3 formation focuses on defensive stability and quick counter-attacks.

Both teams have key defensive players and goalkeepers in top form, indicating that clear goal-scoring opportunities may be limited.

Correct Score Prediction: Switzerland 1 Italy 1 @ 5/1

Switzerland's blend of experienced defenders, dynamic midfielders, and versatile forwards makes them a tough nut to crack for the Azzurri.

Italy will need to be wary of Switzerland’s aerial weaknesses while exploiting potential gaps on the right flank. This match promises to be a tightly contested battle, with Switzerland’s Italian-inspired approach aiming to upset the defending champions.

Whether it's the tactical nous of Spalletti or the pragmatic approach of Yakin that prevails, this game is set to be a highlight of the tournament.

*You can check out all of our Euro 2024 Odds over at betfred.com.

Betfred Match Offers:

Goal Fever

Throughout Euro 2024, Betfred are offering all customers a 25% cash bonus if your selected team in the Match Result market wins by 3+ Goals on selected matches. Switzerland vs Italy is part of this promotion, so if you back and team and they win by three or more, you would see 25% added to your winnings on that bet.

Double Delight & Hat-Trick Heaven

This Switzerland vs Italy game is also one for those who like a bit of a potential bonus in the first goalscorer markets. Should the player you bet on score first and subsequently go on to score a second in the match, we'll double the odds and if they get a hat-trick, we'll treble the odds!

Daniele Fisichella primarily covers Italian football for us here at Betfred Insights and he'll be following the Italian national side throughout the Euro's for us. You can check out his and all the other Football Betting Tips from our writing staff on our main Football hub page.