Gary Lineker blasts Italy with 11-word verdict after embarrassing Euro 2024 exit to Switzerland

Pundit Gary Lineker has strong words for Italy after a limp performance saw them lose to Switzerland in their Euro 2024 last 16 meeting on June 29. Switzerland ended Italian hopes of a title defense with a convincing performance which culminated in a 2-0 win.

Italy narrowly secured automatic qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany. they needed a late equaliser against Croatia to salvage a point from their final group game. The Swiss, on the other hand, had enjoyed a good group stage performance in which they came close to defeating hosts Germany.

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin issued a warning to the defending champions before the game but the Italians failed to heed. Luciano Spalletti's side put on a poor performance and were deservedly beaten comprehensively in Berlin.

Gary Lineker was left disappointed in the Italian performance, and he didn't mince words in his criticism of the deposed champions. The former England international spoke on BBC Sport, describing the Italy team as the worst he has ever seen.

He said:

"I don't think I've witnessed a worse Italian team than this."

The Azzurri were outplayed and outfoxed, as they recorded just one attempt on target in the entire match. Switzerland, on the other hand, were clinical and composed as they proved their worth as one of the dark horses of Euro 2024.

The result means that the champions have been eliminated at the earliest stage of the competition since Euro 2004 where they exited at the group stage. The Swiss advance to the quarterfinals for a second successive edition of the tournament.

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Switzerland stun Italy to reach Euro 2024 quarterfinals

Switzerland delivered the first arguable upset of the Euro 2024 knockout stages in the very first match as they sent Italy crashing out following a 2-0 win. The Azzurri saw their title defense come to an abrupt end at the hands of the talented Swiss side.

Italy-based midfielder Remo Freuler opened the scoring for Switzerland with an exquisite finish on the volley in the 37th minute. Murat Yakin's side doubled their advantage seconds into the second half. Ruben Vargas curled a sumptuous effort into the top corner of Gianluigi Donnarumma's goal.

The Azzurri tried but failed to articulate a response to the energetic display from their opponents, and they ended up on the losing side. Switzerland will now face one of England or Slovakia in the quarterfinals next Saturday.