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Surefire Schürmann basks in Swiss success

Switzerland coach Pierre-André Schürmann insisted he never doubted his side would book their place in Friday's play-off draw after Reto Ziegler's late free-kick took them through at the expense of the Dutch holders.

Reto Ziegler has brought a smile to coach Pierre-André Schürmann
Reto Ziegler has brought a smile to coach Pierre-André Schürmann ©Getty Images

Captain courageous
UC Sampdoria left-back Ziegler struck the only goal of the Group 5 meeting with just four minutes remaining, rifling in a spectacular free-kick to earn his side a requisite win as the Dutch were left dumbfounded. "He is our captain so the onus is on him to step up at important moments – and he did so," said Schürmann. Switzerland's goal-scoring hero added: "You don't get too many opportunities to score such important goals in your career so I am delighted. We are not there yet, however, and will have to work even harder to reach the finals in Sweden."

'Excellent spirit'
Switzerland will learn their play-off opponents when the draw is made in Malmo on Friday, though their presence in Sweden looked in doubt when substitute Fabrizio Zambrella squandered a penalty eleven minutes from time. Not that Schürmann was ever in doubt. "I knew that we would score one goal," stressed the man who has guided the U17s, U19s and U20s into major tournaments in recent years. "I was calm all the time." The 48-year-old has needed composure in a campaign that began with one point from their opening two games against F.Y.R. Macedonia and Norway. "We did not lose heart and always believed in ourselves," the coach reflected. "My team have shown excellent spirit and brought themselves back into contention. I'm delighted with my players."