Scotland vs Switzerland: International Friendly Preview

Scotland vs Switzerland: International Friendly Preview

Scotland vs Switzerland: International Friendly Preview

International Friendly: Scotland vs Switzerland

Venue: East End Park, Dunfermline Date: Tuesday, 28 October Kick-off: 19:30 GMT

Coverage: Watch live on BBC Alba, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport Scotland website.

Scotland's head coach Melissa Andreatta believes that Caroline Weir's return to her hometown can provide "inspiration" for the team as they aim for consecutive victories against Switzerland on Tuesday. Weir, a midfielder for Real Madrid, scored a stunning winner against Morocco last Friday and is set to play at East End Park for the first time, a venue closely associated with her support for Dunfermline Athletic.

Andreatta noted, "You can never question an elite athlete's motivation, as it comes from within. However, what can elevate their performance is inspiration. I believe she will draw inspiration from the passionate Scottish fans in the stands, her family and friends, and the significant moments shared with her teammates during the game. This will motivate her and her teammates to deliver the performance we desire."

'Hungry Scotland Eyeing More Progress'

In addition to a strong performance, Andreatta is eager to see "more progress in key areas" as she approaches her fourth game in charge. Scotland gained valuable experience from their late win in Casablanca, overcoming challenges related to travel and climate. "There’s a lot happening right now, and it’s important to remember that we are still in the early stages of building our team," she stated.

"Given the challenges we’ve faced early on, the players have been exceptional in their adaptability and willingness to learn. We need to recognize that progress is not always linear as we continue to understand each other, our playbook, and our style. Overall, I’m pleased with our current position."

Team News

Andreatta confirmed that "everyone is fit and available" for selection. However, Swiss head coach Pia Sundhage faced a setback as experienced RB Leipzig goalkeeper Elvira Herzog withdrew from the squad due to injury, prompting the call-up of Koln’s Irina Fuchs. Chelsea’s Livia Peng started in Switzerland's recent 1-0 friendly victory against Canada.

Switzerland will also be without Houston Dash striker Ramona Bachmann, who is sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury sustained prior to this summer's Euro finals. Additionally, Tottenham Hotspur defender Luana Buhler and Leipzig midfielder Lara Marti are also unavailable due to injuries.

What They Said

Melissa Andreatta, Scotland Head Coach: "I believe the players are ready to rise to the challenge, and I’m excited to see how we perform. We earned that result, and I wanted them to enjoy it because it’s been a long time coming. Now, we are focused on the next game and the preparations that come with it."

Kathleen McGovern, Scotland Striker: "This presents a different challenge. Switzerland is a strong team, especially following their impressive performance in the Euros. We anticipate a tough match. We’ve been working hard off the pitch, and it will be beneficial to build on the progress we made from Friday night’s result."

Match Statistics

Switzerland is currently ranked 24th in the world, just one spot above Scotland, after both teams dropped one position in August.

Scotland ended an eight-match winless streak, including six losses, with a 2-1 victory over Morocco in the friendly in Casablanca.

Switzerland secured a 1-0 win against Canada in Luzerne, marking their first match since losing 2-0 to Spain in the European Championship quarter-finals in July.

Scotland has suffered three consecutive home defeats.

Switzerland has not won in their last six away matches, losing five of them.

Historically, Scotland has faced Switzerland ten times, winning six matches, drawing three, and losing one.

Switzerland's only victory over Scotland occurred during a World Cup qualifier in April 2018, where they won 1-0 in Schaffhausen.

The last encounter between the two teams took place in August 2018, where Scotland triumphed 2-1 in Paisley, with midfielder Erin Cuthbert scoring the opening goal.

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