Switzerland u-21 kicks out the holders, the Netherlands

On Tuesday the u-21 selection surprisingly kicked out the holders of the European competition, the Netherlands, in a game that was an in or out for Switzerland.

Right before the game, in a group where only the winners would qualify for the play-offs, Switzerland was trailing 3 points behind the Netherlands with one point more than Norway. With the away win earlier in the competition a win would have guaranteed Switzerland to pursue the dream.

Switzerland played well and had several chances, including a great shot by Dzemaili that was directed against the crossbar by keeper Vermeer and at the 78th minute Vermeer saved a penalty that had been taken by Fabrizio Zambrella. It looked as if it was going to be a meagre draw for Switzerland yet a wonder free-kick by Sampdoria’s Reto Ziegler at the 86th minute gave Switzerland a famous win.

The matchwinner claimed that his goal was a message to his Italian coach Mazzarri and Switzerland coach Hitzfeld; having been part of all Swiss national teams, he would look forward to being called for the main team.

Now the young Swiss team will play against Spain in October; unfortunately the game is going to be very hard for the youngsters if you think of the fact that Spain won all of its group games and stars someone by the name of Bojan Krkic.

The winner will join Sweden and 6 other teams for the finals in June 2009.

For a video of the game click here (in german)