Solid Swiss deny Dutch

By Paul Saffer at Stadio Comunale

Switzerland remain in command of UEFA European Under-17 Championship Group B after a goalless draw with the talented Netherlands.

All square
While the Swiss won their opener 3-0 against Israel, the Dutch needed two added-time goals to hold Croatia 2-2. And while the Netherlands constantly proved a handful, Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer had no real saves to make and his team are ahead of Croatia on goal difference, two points clear of the Dutch.

Dutch changes
Switzerland, who would have qualified for the semi-finals by winning, brought defender Raphaël Mollet, midfielder Angelo Dorsa and striker Fabio Klinger into their starting lineup. The Netherlands, who lost Melvin Zaalman to an ankle injury against Croatia, recalled another midfield player, Ruud Vormer, after suspension. Martin van der Laan replaced Robin de Jong in defence and Mier Mzcelik came in for Jerson Anes.

Sun emerges
Despite a pre-match thunderstorm, the sun emerged in time for kick-off. The Dutch were buoyed by their dramatic comeback for a point against Croatia and an angled Anita Vurnon pass set up the lively Johannes Goosens, but he shot wide. Immediately, at the other end, good work from Ivan Rakitic gave Daniel Pavlovic a sight of goal, but he hit the side-netting. Half an hour in Marvin Enmes's jinking run allowed a Vormer shot, but it was over the bar.

Sarpong effort
Only three minutes into the second period, Sarpong jinked through the Swiss defence, but again the shot missed the target, unlike Bekim Halimi's effort soon after which Timothy Krul dived to save.

Halimi close
Frustrated at their failure to score, the Netherlands introduced Hanne Hagary and switched to the more direct style that saved them against Croatia. The Swiss, though, were also able to counterattack and Halimi and Raikitic combined superbly on 63 minutes, but the No9 shot wide.

Late opportunity
Halimi came close again when he put a looping Jonas Elmer cross over the bar. The Netherlands continued to push, but in vain, so they must beat Israel on Sunday, when the Swiss will need to win against Croatia unless the Dutch stumble.