Dan Ndoye seals Switzerland comeback win over Slovenia in Lucerne
Switzerland recovered from an alarmingly early setback in Lucerne to beat Slovenia and preserve their perfect start at the top of Nations League Group B1, with Dan Ndoye’s 38th-minute finish settling a tense home fixture.
Early Slovenia goal tested Switzerland’s control
The hosts were behind after only 90 seconds when Zan Vipotnik took advantage of a defensive error to give Slovenia an unexpected lead. Switzerland, returning to home action after their World Cup quarter-final run, had expected a difficult contest but were forced to respond immediately against opponents prepared to defend deep.
Ndoye said the opening blow made an already demanding match harder, but felt Switzerland regained their composure quickly. The Nottingham Forest winger said the side had understood the challenge before kick-off and responded by getting back on course without allowing the early concession to disrupt their approach.
- Vipotnik put Slovenia ahead inside the first two minutes after a Swiss defensive lapse.
- Switzerland remained patient against Slovenia’s compact low block and continued to occupy the penalty area.
- Zeki Amdouni pressured the Slovenian defence into an error in the 38th minute.
- Ndoye converted the opportunity to deliver the goal that secured the points.
Patience against the low block produced the decisive opening
Ndoye’s goal came after Amdouni forced a mistake from the Slovenian back line. The 25-year-old said Slovenia offered little room around their box, yet Switzerland stayed present in advanced areas, waited for openings and still created chances.
The match-winner reached 40 international appearances during the game. He described the current Switzerland squad as a balance of established players and emerging talent, with the senior group seeking to pass on its mentality to newcomers.
That transition has been especially important with Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo unavailable following reports surrounding a COVID certificate controversy. Switzerland have instead incorporated younger players including Winsley Boteli and Sascha Britschgi, maintaining their competitiveness despite the absence of two experienced figures.
Group B1 position puts focus on North Macedonia
The result moved Switzerland to nine points from three Group B1 matches, leaving them with a maximum return and in firm control of first place. A fourth consecutive victory against North Macedonia on Tuesday night could confirm top spot if Scotland and Slovenia draw in the other group match.
Switzerland faced North Macedonia last Saturday, giving Ndoye and his team-mates recent experience of the opposition. Ndoye said the squad know the type of test awaiting them and want to continue their winning run.
- Switzerland have taken nine points from their opening three Group B1 fixtures.
- Ndoye scored the decisive goal in the 38th minute on his 40th cap.
- Amdouni’s pressure created the Slovenian defensive error that led to the winner.
- Victory over North Macedonia could secure first place if Scotland and Slovenia draw.
Winning without their best level remains encouraging
Switzerland’s response in Lucerne underlined their growing comfort as group favourites. They avoided a damaging home slip despite conceding almost immediately and facing a disciplined Slovenian defensive shape.
Ndoye stressed that the group must maintain its momentum, adding that it is a positive sign when a team can collect a result even without producing its strongest performance. With one more match in the international window, Switzerland have the chance to complete it with a perfect record.
