Switzerland, handicapped by a virus against Portugal, ratified Yakin

The president of the Swiss Football Association (ASF), Dominique Blanc, and the technical director, Pier Tami, have ratified Murat Yakin as coach despite the defeat against Portugal (6-1) in the round of 16 that led to the elimination of Helvetic World Cup team.

Meanwhile, the Swiss team revealed that some of its players were victims of a virus that prevented them from playing and reduced the team for the match against Portugal. Many of them were infected in the concentration hotel although they clarified that it was not covid.

The infection caused the loss of defender Silvan Widmer, in particular, and to a lesser extent it affected Nico Elvedi, who was on the bench. Fabian Schär was infected then and could join the team in the round of 16 clash.

Doubts cleared

As for Yakin, Pier Tami, technical director of the Swiss Football Association, removed the doubts about the future of the coach and assured that he does not have to fear for his position. “No, not at all. We will analyze in detail what happened in the coming weeks. But he has been with us for a year and three months and during that time he has qualified Switzerland directly for the World Cup,” he said.

“We cannot undo everything we have done well so far. The six points achieved in the group stage is one of the best results ever. However, we did not perform at our level in the round of 16 ,” Tami added.

The causes of disaster

“There are many reasons that explain the match against Portugal and we have to make an accurate analysis. Our physical level is not at the level of our rival. We are disappointed, although it is fair to highlight Portugal,” said of Pier Tami, who does not know which player he intends to close his cycle with the national team.

“The match against Portugal was a big disappointment and it was a mistake to act quickly. The players did not expect anything, but there were aspects that did not work. We must remain united,” said the ASF technical director.