Switzerland (La Nati) in Brazil……..
The 2014 Fifa World Cup will be their 3rd participation in a row. We will have to go back over half a century to find another trend like it for the Swiss. Their best results in the Fifa World Cup is also dated over a half a century ago. It is fair to say that Switzerland is on the quest to get back to where they were during the initiation days of the competition.
With a 7-3-0(W-D-L) record in the qualifying stage, the Swiss will be hoping to continue this undefeated run in the World Cup.
Switzerland might not boast of too many star players, but the team work from this batch is enough to fight of any opponent.
The Venom
Mario Gavranovic
Mario Gavranovic has been the leading striker for the Swiss. He takes on the role as the primary No. 9. He is not likely to be in the list of ‘world class’ strikers, but he does deliver for his home nation when he is called on to lead the attack.
Also to look for in the Swiss for wards will be Eren Derdiyok
The Control and Support
Despite starting as a winger, Xherdan Shaqiri is arguably the most lethal weapon the Swiss have in their deck. Shaqiri is an attacking force to be reckon with. His physique and strength makes him a difficult man to take down, and his dribbling and speed makes it difficult to strip him off the ball.
Shaqiri
He can play up front as a center forward, and can also be the play maker from the middle. He is an all-round offensive assets to the Swiss team.
Gökhan İnler is a standing figure in the middle. As the captain to La Nati, his play-making, defensive work, and most of all the long shots he adds to the attacking efforts makes him irreplaceable in the midfield.
Another presence in the midfield area will be Granit Xhaka. Xhaka will be be controlling the tempo of Switzerland’s gameplay. You should also keep an eye out for Tranquillo Barnetta.
The Bouncers
Prominent names to look out for in the Swiss defense will be ex-Fulham FC player Phillippe Senderos, who is now with the Valencia. Stephan Lichtsteiner of Juventus, home lad Fabian Schar of FC Basel and ex-Arsenal FC player Johan Djourou, who permanently joined Hamburger SV this year.
Phillippe Senderos
So what is it for Switzerland?
It is hard to tell what Switzerland are made of from their World Cup qualification group. By comparison, they had an easier qualification group.
There is a good chance for Switzerland to get out of Group E. Their UEFA groupmate; France, might their biggest challenge in this group. However, they can’t underestimate a South American side. Ecuador will test show test the durability of the Swiss defensive line.
But this is futbol, there will be some drama, suspense and surprises. And that is why we will have to be watching to see if Switzerland will make their advantage count.
