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Yakin issues rallying cry

Hakan Yakin told euro2004.com that Switzerland must "seize the chance" to defeat France in Monday's match in Coimbra.

Possible progress
Despite propping up Group B, Switzerland can reach the knockout stages if they beat their neighbours and either England or Croatia win the game played simultaneously in Lisbon. With Stéphane Chapuisat out of goals, Swiss supporters will be looking for Yakin to impress against France - a responsibility he seemed happy to accept. "It's our last chance and every player must go into the match with the attitude that they must seize their chance," he said.

Pressure off
The 27-year-old continued: "Maybe France will be a bit nervous and will believe that they won't have to play at the peak of their game against us. If one of our efforts falls into the net a lot of pressure would be taken away."

Frei free
Switzerland received some cheer today when another attacking player, Alexander Frei, was cleared of spitting at Steven Gerrard during the 3-0 loss to England. He is likely to partner Chapuisat despite calls for Johan Vonlanthen, 18, to start. The suspended Bernt Haas, Fabio Celestini and Benjamin Huggel are set to be replaced by Stéphane Henchoz, Johann Vogel and Ricardo Cabanas.

Kuhn hopeful
If Switzerland fail to progress, then the international careers of Chapuisat and Jörg Stiel will come to an end in Coimbra against France, a side who have not totally convinced Jakob Kuhn. "France remain France," said the Switzerland coach. "But they have tried to win the last two matches with the least possible effort. If they do so against us they'll give us a chance of victory."

Santini meeting
Prior to Portugal, Switzerland had earmarked taking four points from their opening two games; instead they have one. Defender Patrick Müller said: "We wanted a different scenario ahead of this game but why shouldn't we beat France? The chance might be small but at least there is one." Müller is also looking forward to meeting up with France coach Jacques Santini, his former boss at Olympique Lyonnais. "It will be good to greet him," he said.

Large bonus
Switzerland last played France in a friendly last August and were totally outplayed in a 2-0 defeat. "We can't compare tomorrow's game with that one as the situations are totally different," said Yakin. "Instead we have to see how we can improve on our performance against England." The Swiss players will reportedly receive a €53,000 bonus if they progress.

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