In six World Cup qualifying games, Switzerland scored the same number of points as Italy. The only thing that speaks for the European champions is the goal difference (12: 1 versus 10: 1). If the national team succeeds in the coup in Rome on November 12th (8.45pm), they have to secure first place in the final game against Bulgaria (November 15th) in their own feet and thus secure the direct ticket to the World Cup.
Breel Embolo is also jointly responsible for this exciting starting position. Often unlucky with injuries, he scored two of the four goals against Lithuania. Stéphane Henchoz is enthusiastic about the 24-year-old. “I particularly like Embolo physically. He’s so strong, almost no defender can call him. If he is 100 percent fit, then he is very good and very important for the team. ” The Nati legend even goes so far and describes Embolo as a key figure. «He’s still young and gets even better with more experience. For me he is a top person. “
More relaxation thanks to yakin
Murat Yakin also played his part in making Embolo run hot in the national team. «With Muri there is a little more relaxation. The training sessions are open and there are autograph sessions for the fans, ”explains Henchoz. He also had the feeling that the players would be more happy to join. “It is important that you come to the national team with a smile on your face.”
Henchoz doesn’t like comparing what Yakin does better than his predecessor Vladimir Petkovic, however. It’s a little early for that. «Muri is a different personality. He also plays a little different tactically, ”is all he says.
Victory in Rome is possible
Tactically, Yakin cannot bet on Granit Xhaka against Italy. The captain is missing injured. “He wasn’t really missing in the last two games,” said Henchoz. And continues: “Switzerland won two competitive games, but against weak teams. It will be different against Italy away from home. Only then will you see how much Xhaka is missing. “
But a win in Rome is possible, the 72-time Nati player is sure. For that you need top performance. “I’m guessing a 1-0 for Switzerland,” says Henchoz.
Henchoz on top fight: “The FCZ cannot pull this off”(22:23)