Switzerland is not traditionally considered one of the world's footballing superpowers. However, the land of mountains and lakes has built up a solid foundation over the last few years. There has always been a palpable sense around the Nati that they could spring a major upset, yet that elusive breakthrough has remained just out of reach.
At UEFA EURO 2024, Switzerland narrowly missed out on a maiden semi-final appearance, falling to England in a penalty shootout. At Qatar 2022, their journey ended in the Round of 16 with a heavy defeat to Portugal. The Swiss also suffered penalty-shootout heartbreak in the quarter-finals of EURO 2020 and the Round of 16 at EURO 2016, while their campaigns at Brazil 2014 and Russia 2018 also both concluded in the Round of 16.
Now, this current generation has another opportunity to rewrite the narrative. Following their victory over Algeria, Switzerland has reached the Round of 16 of the . For Dan Ndoye, a new chapter of the tournament begins: one with increased pressure, but also with growing self-belief.
FIFA: Dan, how would you summarise the victory against Algeria?
Dan Ndoye: It was a knockout match. For us, it was the start of a new tournament with no room for error. We knew we had to concentrate from the first minute to the last, and that’s exactly what we did, and we ended up winning.
Switzerland is now in the Round of 16. What does this moment mean to you?
We have been in this position several times in previous competitions, but now we want to take the next step. Reaching a World Cup quarter-final would be historic. It is every player’s dream to experience matches and tournaments like these.
How big is the support back home in Switzerland?
It is incredible. Seeing images of fans celebrating at five in the morning in Switzerland was crazy. Seeing how the whole country is behind us gives us extra energy. We want to bring joy and hope to the people.
Switzerland is often described as a difficult team to play against, but in this tournament, the team seems much more attack-minded. How do you explain that?
We have long been known as a resilient team that is difficult to beat, but we have also shown in recent tournaments that we can play attractive football. This new generation is like a breath of fresh air. An attacking style of play naturally suits me, because I am an attack-minded player.
What is the secret to advancing in this tournament?
For me, the key lies in the balance between attack and defence. A strong defensive line is enormously important. When you keep a clean sheet, then one goal is enough to win, but when we're up against opponents with a strong attack, we also need to make the difference and find ways to score ourselves.
How important is Johan Manzambi to this team?
Johan is a young player who makes a lot of things look effortless. He plays football with joy and without overthinking. This fearlessness helps us enormously. He brings a freshness to the team and is a player who means a lot to us
Colombia is up next. What are you expecting?
Colombia is a very strong opponent. They play very well as a unit and possess world-class players. They’ve also got a lot of fans who make a lot of noise. It will certainly be an intense match, but we will prepare well and be ready.
In what frame of mind are you approaching this match?
With respect, but also with self-belief. We have the means to make it happen. The key will be to remain solid at the back whilst at the same time finding ways to score against them.
Is this Swiss team ready to rewrite history?
Yes, I am convinced of that. We have the right mentality, we work hard, and we combine experience with the exuberance of the young players. Now we need to prove it on the pitch, this Tuesday against Colombia.
Sources: FIFA Official
