The Three Lions' roar or the Swiss knives' cut

England disappointed in the tournament so far, while Switzerland are ready to shine. Who will join Spain and France in the EURO 2024 semi-final? The decision is to be made today in Düsseldorf (7 pm). In prospect, the Englishmen are still favourites, but the Swiss have shown they can "battle" with any opponent in Germany.

Before the European championship, the Three Lions were the favourites for the trophy. However, so far, they haven't lived up to expectations. Gareth Southgate, whose game against Switzerland will be his 100th on England's bench, fell out of favour with the media in the homeland and is harshly criticized by former stars, now pundits, like Gary Neville and Roy Keane, and the players were not spared either.

On the other hand, the Swiss crushed the Italians 2-0 and took off their European crown, while in the group stage, they were close to beating Germany (Niclas Füllkrug equalized in the added time). Murat Yakin's crew showed many more positives during the tournament, but the quality is still on England's side.

Jude Bellingham is the only bright spot in the team, along with captain Harry Kane, who has found the net twice in the EURO so far. The entire country still awaits Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Phil Foden, and other superstars who haven't shown an iota of what they are capable of. As for Southgate, not winning a trophy could mean a departure from the national team's bench. The fans are hungry for success after falling short in the EURO 2020 final.

Rest and recover before the Swiss come - then run for cover

For that reason, the media in England expect some changes. Finally, some would say. Namely, Kieran Trippier will probably be moved to the right-back, whereas Saka will cover the left side. The last time Newcastle's defender played in his natural position for the national team was in the European Championship final against Italy three years ago. Man United's Luke Shaw is also an option for the left flank, but he's just recovered from the injury, and it's hard to believe that Southgate will give him a chance from the first whistle. Marc Guehi is suspended for today's game due to two yellow cards.

No changes are expected from Yakin. Yan Sommer will take his place between the posts, Manuel Akanji will be in charge of the defence, Granit Xhaka will control the midfield, while Breel Embolo, Dan Ndoye and Ruben Vargas should threaten the rival defence. Switzerland had never advanced from the EURO quarter-final, and now it seems they are ready for more, while anything but a trophy is a failure for England. These two teams last met in a friendly match two years ago at Wembley, and the Three Lions won 2-1. Kane and Shaw scored for the host, and Embolo netted for the Swiss. The winner of this clash will face either the Netherlands or Turkey in the semi-final.

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP - 1/4 FINALS

Friday

Spain - Germany 2-1 (0-0) AET

/Olmo 52, Merino 119 - Wirtz 89/

Portugal - France 3-5 on pen (0-0)

Saturday

19:00: (2.35) England (3.20) Switzerland (3.55)

22:00: (1.65) Netherlands (4.10) Turkey (5.80)

***odds are subject to change***