After three defeats in the Nations League, Switzerland need a win at home against Denmark. National coach Murat Yakin announces changes to the line-up.
14.10.2024, 17:10
14.10.2024, 17:14
SDA
"A surprise? Yes, why not tomorrow?" Yakin was somewhat cryptic about the possible line-up against Denmark at the press conference, but let it be known that he wants to make changes. "We've put the team together so that we're ready for both games. That we are also flexible in our system," says the 50-year-old national team coach.
Yakin will definitely have to make one change compared to the game against Serbia: Silvan Widmer is suspended after his second yellow card and has already returned to his club. In Leskovac, Yakin replaced the right winger at the break, moving Dan Ndoye one position back and bringing on Fabian Rieder instead. Another option would be to bring on all-rounder Edimilson Fernandes from the start. Possibly also as a right-back in a back four. Yakin's announcement is now likely to fuel speculation.
Yakin and his coaching team used the day before the third clash with Denmark this year for one-on-one talks. They discussed previous performances in the Nations League and looked for reasons for the drop in performance after the European Championship. "That was very important and very creative," says Yakin looking back. Among other things, the players came to the conclusion that the necessary intensity had been lacking in the last few games. They will change this in the home game in St. Gallen, Yakin announced. "We're really looking forward to the game, but we still have a few things to make up for."
Captain Granit Xhaka also says: "Whether it's the European Championship, World Cup or Nations League: anyone who plays for the national team has to give 100 percent every time." The midfield strategist contradicts the view that the players are taking the competition less seriously. "We know what hasn't been good enough so far and we'll try to do better tomorrow." In St. Gallen, where Switzerland have picked up five wins and two draws since 2021, the aim is to pick up their first points on Tuesday.
The possible line-ups
Switzerland - Denmark
St. Gallen. - SR Meler (TUR).
Switzerland: Kobel; Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Ndoye, Freuler, Xhaka, Garcia; Rieder, Embolo, Amdouni.
Denmark: Schmeichel; Kristensen, Vestergaard, Nelsson; Bah, Stage, Höjbjerg, Dorgu; Eriksen, Poulsen; Höjlund.
Remarks: Switzerland without Widmer (suspended). Denmark without Hjulmand and Kristiansen (both suspended).
