Frei stars for five-goal Swiss

Slovenia 1-5 Switzerland
Alexander Frei gave Switzerland a boost for their forthcoming UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifiers by scoring twice in a friendly victory against Slovenia.

Yakin opener
It was Hakan Yakin who gave the Swiss the lead just two minutes into a one-sided encounter. The FC Basel striker pounced on some sloppy defending to nudge his side ahead before Bernt Haas doubled the advantage on 29 minutes, rising highest in the area to head in Yakin's corner.

Frei finish
Stade Rennais FC striker Frei opened his account by slotting past Slovenia goalkeeper Marko Simeuovic seven minutes before half-time after Stéphane Chapuisat's exquisite pass. Ricardo Cabanas made it four shortly after the break and Frei wrapped up the scoring on 77 minutes after seeing his original effort cannon back off the crossbar.

Rakovic on target
Ermin Rakovic scored a consolation for Slovenia a minute later but it will be little comfort to coach Bojan Prasnikar ahead of his charges' Group 1 qualifier against Cyprus on 2 April. Group 10 leaders Switzerland, meanwhile, can look forward to their trip to Georgia on the same day with relish.