Euro 2024 – Scotland vs Switzerland | Match Info, Preview & Lineup
After suffering their worst-ever opening defeat at the men’s European Championships, Scotland aims to regain their pride on Wednesday when they face Switzerland in Euro 2024 Group A in Cologne.
Steve Clarke’s team was embarrassed 5-1 by hosts Germany, while Switzerland managed to avoid a similar fate by defeating Hungary 3-1.
Due to a straight red card in the loss to Germany, Scotland will be without the suspended Porteous for Wednesday’s game and their final group match against Hungary. Either Grant Hanley or Scott McKenna will fill in at the back.
Porteous’s offense initially carried a one-game ban, but UEFA increased his punishment, likely ending his tournament. McKenna’s header was deflected into the German net by Rudiger on Friday, but Hanley is expected to get the nod from Clarke, who may also make a few changes further up the field.
Billy Gilmour, surprisingly left out against Germany, is a strong candidate for the starting lineup, while Che Adams, who struggled to make an impact against the Germans, may be replaced by Lawrence Shankland.
In good news for Switzerland, midfielder Denis Zakaria, recovering from a thigh injury, is back in full training and could be part of the squad, though a start seems unlikely.
Steven Zuber has also rejoined the team after a brief discomfort, while Silvan Widmer and Remo Freuler risk suspension for the Germany match if they are cautioned here. Coach Yakin was booked for dissent over the weekend as well.
Despite this, the Swiss coach is likely to stick with his successful lineup, keeping Embolo in reserve as he builds fitness and maintaining faith in Duah, who impressed in his second appearance for Switzerland against Hungary at age 27.
