Switzerland have claimed their third straight win in the Nations League, although the match against Slovenia couldn't have started any worse for them. Just 90 seconds into the game, they found themselves behind thanks to a goal from Jan Vipotnik. However, the team managed to turn things around, ultimately winning 2-1, with Dan Ndiaye scoring the crucial goal.
The Nottingham Forest forward admitted that conceding so early made their task significantly harder:
We knew it would be a tough match, and conceding a goal right at the start didn’t make it any easier. Fortunately, we were able to get back into the game straight away.
Ndiaye found the back of the net on the 38th minute after Zeki Amdouni forced the Slovenian defence into a mistake. For the Swiss, one major hurdle was breaking down the opponent’s deep and compact defensive setup.
Ndiaye explained:
They defended in a low block, but we were constantly present in their box. We showed patience and were able to create chances, even though there wasn’t much space.
This match marked the 25-year-old's 40th appearance for the national team. Switzerland are currently undergoing a noticeable squad evolution, welcoming young talents like Winsley Botelli and Sascha Britschgi, while seasoned players such as Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo missed the clash against Slovenia.
Ndiaye noted that the responsibility of the more experienced players is to maintain the mentality that has been built over recent years:
We have a combination of youth and experience right now. A lot of young players are coming in, and we try to pass on the mentality that has existed among the senior players for several years.
With three rounds completed, Switzerland sits at the top of Group B1, having earned a perfect nine points from nine. Their next opponent is North Macedonia, and a victory could secure them first place ahead of schedule, depending on the outcome of the parallel match between Scotland and Slovenia.
Ndiaye added:
We played against them last Saturday, so we know what to expect. We’re hoping for our fourth consecutive win.
