Swiss work on dead-ball prowess

Possible advance
The Swiss could advance to the quarter-finals along with either England or Croatia if they beat France, but will have to improve on their delivery of dead balls if they are to do so. "It's important that we capitalise on one of these situations," said Hakan Yakin, the playmaker who took a number of free-kicks from promising positions in the 3-0 loss to England without troubling goalkeeper David James.

Four changes?
There could be four changes to the Swiss lineup for Monday's match, even without allowing for a possible suspension to Alexander Frei - charged by UEFA for spitting at Steven Gerrard in Coimbra. One of those is enforced as Bernt Haas must serve a one-match suspension following his sending-off against England. The experienced Stéphane Henchoz stands by to replace him. "I hope to get my chance," he said.

Speed and skill
Defensive midfield player Johann Vogel, sent off in the opening draw with Croatia, will return to the side at the expense of Fabio Celestini who returned to training today after sitting out yesterday's session with a heel injury. Ricardo Cabanas's superior skill and speed are likely to earn him the right-midfield berth at the expense of Benjamin Huggel, while Johan Vonlanthen is putting pressure on the goalless Stéphane Chapuisat.

Vogel confident
Although France, the holders, have not lost for 20 matches, Switzerland remain optimistic. "The French are not as convincing and maybe not as hungry as they were some years ago - this could be our chance," said Vogel. Switzerland will transfer from Óbidos to Luso tomorrow afternoon before a final light practice ahead of the decider in Coimbra.