Swiss run like clockwork to dump Togo

Published on 19/06/2006 17:02

Togo 0

Switzerland 2

Frei 16, Barnetta 88

90 minutes in 90 words

A technical masterpiece of possession and control ... but not really. This was a entertaining but scrappy affair where the Swiss mastered the basics better than Togo. Their first goal was well-executed: a cross, a one-touch knock across goal and a tap-in. Togo were denied a clear penalty after 35 minutes but the Swiss had the upper hand in the second half - and a hatful of chances - while Togo showed a lack of urgency. In the 88th minute, Barnetta scored a peach across the box to end it.

Hero

Barnetta's finish was a mighty fine conclusion to the match.

Villain

Inevitably, the ref who decided that Togo shouldn't be awarded a stonewall penalty.

What have we learned?

Togo are going home. Switzerland are efficient. But that might not be enough to carry them far.

Teams

Togo Agassa, Tchangai, Nibombe, Agboh (off 25), Tour, Maman (off 87), Dossevi (off 69), Romao, Kader, Adebayor, Forson.

Subs Salifou 25, Senaya 69, Malm 87

Booked Adebayor, Salifou, Romao

Switzerland Zuberbhler, Mller, Magnin, Senderos, Degen, Wicky, Vogel, Gygax (off 46), Cabanas (off 77), Barnetta, Frei (off 87)

Subs Yakin 46, Streller 77, Lustrinelli 87

Booked Vogel

Referee: Carlos Amarilla (Paraguay)