Switzerland has taken a significant step toward a sixth consecutive FIFA World Cup qualification, securing a commanding 3-0 win against Slovenia in a Group B clash in Basel. The victory marks the Swiss side’s second win in as many games in the qualification campaign, solidifying their position at the top of the group standings.
Coming off a four-match winning streak that saw them net an impressive 15 goals, the Swiss attack showed no signs of slowing down. The hosts threatened early when Slovenia’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak was forced into a diving save from a cushioned volley by Silvan Widmer in the 17th minute. The pressure paid off almost immediately from the ensuing Ruben Vargas corner, as defender Nico Elvedi broke free to guide a header into the bottom corner, putting Switzerland ahead.
The momentum continued for Murat Yakin’s men. Fabian Rieder was nearly on the scoresheet with a powerful strike that was saved by Oblak’s foot, and Dan Ndoye saw a beautiful curling effort go just wide. Slovenia’s defense, frustrated by the relentless Swiss attack, buckled just a minute later. Another corner, this time from Rieder, was not dealt with, allowing Breel Embolo to easily nod in his sixth goal in his last five international matches.
The first half goal-fest was completed in the 38th minute. Granit Xhaka delivered a precise through-pass to Remo Freuler, who then squared the ball for Ndoye to fire into the roof of the net, making it 3-0.
After the break, Slovenia showed more resilience, slowing the tempo and creating a few chances of their own. A deflected strike from Benjamin Sesko finally forced a save from Swiss keeper Gregor Kobel. However, the Swiss defense held firm, ensuring a second clean sheet of the international window, following their 4-0 win over Kosovo.
The win gives the Swiss a three-point lead at the top of Group B. Slovenia, who came into the match undefeated in seven WCQ matches, remain on one point after their previous draw with Sweden, leaving them with work to do to achieve their first World Cup qualification since 2010
