Italy’s hope of defending their Euro title ended in Berlin as Switzerland scored twice and booted them out in the last 16, marking their first win over Italy in 31 years.

In a stunning turn of events, the defending champions were left bewildered as Switzerland's Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas shattered Italy's Euro 2024 dreams. The Swiss team's early dominance bore fruit, leaving Italy disoriented and unable to counterattack effectively, much like trying to make pizza without dough. Now, Switzerland bask in their first victory over Italy in more than three decades and eagerly await their quarterfinal showdown, while Italy contemplates another premature exit in the Euros.

The match kicked off at the Olympiastadion in Berlin with Switzerland showing immediate intent. By the 37th minute, their efforts were rewarded when Remo Freuler found the back of the net. Picking up a well-timed pass from Ruben Vargas inside the penalty area, Freuler slotted the ball past the Italian defense, giving Switzerland a well-deserved lead. Clearly, the Swiss players thought they were playing in their own backyard!

Things went from bad to worse for Italy almost instantly after the break. Just 27 seconds into the second half, Ruben Vargas doubled Switzerland’s tally. The Swiss side capitalized on Italy's sluggish restart, as Vargas struck swiftly and decisively, making it look like the Italians were still sipping on their halftime espressos.

Switzerland’s momentum continued, and it seemed as if they were going to extend their lead further before halftime. A free kick from Fabian Rieder almost found the net, but fortune spared the Italians a more disastrous scoreline as the shot narrowly missed. The Italians, perhaps having a flashback to their pasta not quite al dente, breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Italy, on the other hand, struggled to find their feet throughout the match. Missing defender Riccardo Calafiori due to suspension and relying on Gianluca Mancini in his stead, Italy's defense looked unusually vulnerable. Despite their best efforts, including a golden opportunity in the 73rd minute when Gianluca Scamacca's shot hit the woodwork, Luciano Spalletti’s side could not produce a comeback. It seems that Italy forgot their recipe for a strong defense – perhaps they left it back home along with Calafiori!

This uncharacteristic performance marked Italy's third consecutive exit in the round of 16 at the Euros. It's a bitter pill to swallow for the 2021 champions, who claimed victory in the last Euros by defeating England on penalties. It seems like Italy can't catch a break - or perhaps they left their winning boots back in 2021!

Switzerland, energetic and relentless, managed to keep Italy pinned back with a constant press, effectively stifling Italy's attempts to maintain possession. The Swiss defense stood as firm as the Alps, making any Italian advance look like an uphill battle.

With this historic win, Switzerland now marches on to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the England and Slovakia match. Their next challenge is set for July 6 in Düsseldorf, and no doubt, Swiss fans will be hoping for an encore performance.

For Italy, this loss requires some serious contemplation. Three consecutive round of 16 exits raise questions about their consistency in European competitions. As the Azzurri lick their wounds, they must reckon with the reality that their Euro crown has slipped, and it’s time to rebuild for the future.

The last 16 continues to be a haunted ground for the Italians, who must now return to the drawing board. Meanwhile, Switzerland savors their moment of triumph. An impressive and disciplined display has not only extended their journey in the tournament but also etched this match into the annals of Swiss football history. One thing is certain: the Swiss fans will be yodeling joyfully tonight.