Defeat for Sommer and co. – Koné makes first start

While Yann Sommer, Breel Embolo and Nico Elvedi’s Switzerland were defeated in their third UEFA Nations League game, Manu Koné secured qualification for the U21 EUROs in 2023 with France U21s.

Switzerland lost their third consecutive game in the UEFA Nations League. Despite Yann Sommer and Breel Embolo returning to the starting XI – Nico Elvedi wasn’t risked after taking a knock – the Swiss side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in Geneva. The away side took an early lead when Pablo Sarabia found the back of the net on 13 minutes. Switzerland were able to control more of the play in the second half but were unable to find an equaliser despite some good chances. “We were courageous in our play and did what made us stand out in the past,” said Sommer. “We were a fun side to watch.” Sommer said he was not expecting his side to have picked up three defeats from three games. “But to go head-to-head with opponents like Spain and Portugal, you need a top performance,” said Borussia’s number one. Switzerland will host Portugal in Geneva on Sunday evening (20:45 CEST) in their fourth game of the Nations League.

Koné and France qualify for U21 EUROs

Elsewhere, Manu Koné (photo: imago images / PanoramiC) made his starting XI debut for the France U21 national team. After appearing as a substitute in each of the last two games, borussia’s midfielder finally made his first start for the U21 side in their final group stage qualifier against Ukraine which ended in a 3-3 draw, enough to secure qualification for the finals tournament in 2023. Matthis Abline (3‘), Khephren Thuram (10‘) and Amine Gouiri (25‘) scored early on as France raced into an early lead in Istanbul, before Ukraine scored twice to rescue a point. The draw was, however, enough to see France clinch first place in their group. Koné can now enjoy a summer break with no further fixtures scheduled for the France side.