Switzerland vs. Spain Prediction: EURO 2020 Odds & Picks
Switzerland vs. Spain Prediction: EURO 2020 Odds & Picks
Most predicted this Euro 2020 quarter-final would be a heavyweight clash between France and Spain. But while the latter made it through their round of 16 tie, squeezing past Croatia in extra time, the former fell at the hands of Switzerland despite holding a 3-1 lead with just nine minutes left to play.
Switzerland, however, have earned their place in the tournament’s last eight. What Vladimir Petkovic’s side lack in obvious match winners, they make up for in the strength of their structure. Spain will be favorites, but this encounter could be more competitive than many envision. Here are some tips and predictions for Switzerland v Spain on Friday July 2.
Switzerland vs. Spain Prediction
When: July 2
Where:Saint Petersburg Stadium (Saint Petersburg, Russia)
Time: 12pm ET
Odds: Switzerland +480, Draw +280, Spain -152 - View full odds for the game here.
Granit Xhaka put on a sparkling display to help Switzerland eliminate France, but the Arsenal midfielder is suspended for this match. This is a significant blow to Petkovic’s preparations. He must find a way to match up against a Spanish team that will likely dominate the ball in the centre of the pitch. This will prove very challenging without Xhaka.
Spain’s biggest problem earlier in the tournament was that they were unable to translate possession into goals, scoring just twice in games against Sweden and Poland. Since then, though, Luis Enrique’s side have bagged 10 times in just two games. In a complete flipping of the script, a lack of control might now be an issue.
Despite winning a six-goal thriller against France in the previous round, Switzerland’s best chance against Spain is to keep this match tight. There have been under 2.5 goals total goals scored in their last four meetings with Spain in all competitions. If Switzerland get drawn into a shootout, they will likely find themselves outgunned.
Enrique has made changes to his team for every game Spain have played at Euro 2020. However, Sergio Busquets can be sure of his place to face Switzerland having made a big difference against Slovakia and Croatia. Pablo Sarabia has been a surprise package for Spain at this tournament, scoring in his last two games, and will likely keep his place here.
Pedri has been Spain’s most influential player at Euro 2020 so far, pulling the strings from midfield just as he did for Barcelona last season. Switzerland must find a way to close down Pedri without leaving gaps elsewhere on the pitch for the Euro 2008 and 2012 winners to exploit. This job could be one for Denis Zakaria.