Breel Embolo put Switzerland ahead with 15 minutes remaining, but Bukayo Saka’s excellent equaliser sent the game to extra time and ultimately penalties, where the Three Lions went five-for-five to advance to the next round.
Lining up in their new three-back formation, England dominated possession in the opening stages as right wing-back Saka enjoyed space out wide. A whipped cross for Kieran Trippier was slightly too strong, before a late offside flag against the Arsenal star ended a dangerous moment from the Three Lions.
Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo both saw long-range strikes blocked, while a number of cut-backs failed to reach their targets as England continued to push for the opener their bright start perhaps deserved.
Switzerland had their own bright moments and were happy to fire crosses into the box, but some resolute England defending prevented any real threats on Jordan Pickford’s goal.
On the stroke of half-time, Mainoo’s strike from close range drew an excellent block from Granit Xhaka. For all of the intrigue of the first half, neither side actually managed a shot on target, although England fans were undoubtedly happy with what they had seen in the first 45.
Embolo had the game’s first shot on target five minutes after the restart with a tame strike, before Switzerland started to enjoy their strongest period of the game. Some smart moves earned space down the right wing, forcing Ezri Konsa into a number of top interceptions.
