Hosts Switzerland meet Turkey for the first time since November 2005 in a game where defeat could mean the end of either team’s European aspirations.

The Swiss lost 0-1 to to the Czech Republic in their opening game, but not before giving their more fancied opponents a scare. They had many opportunities to level the game in the second half, but were denied by some poor finishing and the brilliance of Petr Cech. Inspirational skipper Alexander Frei misses out after a challenge by Zdenek Grygera in the first match. His spot is likely to be taken by Hakan Yakin, although Kuhn could start with the young Eren Derdiyok and use Yakin as an impact player in the second half. Marco Streller has to improve upon his game- his performance against the Czech Republic was anything but satisfactory. The Swiss are likely to stick to the same back four- Lichsteiner, Senderos, Mueller and Magnin.

Turkey will have bitter memories of the last time they played the Swiss- a game they won 4-2 in Istanbul, but it ended being remembered for the fight that followed in the tunnel. Fatih Terim’s side probably gave a little too much respect to Portugal in their opener, and may play more freely against the Swiss. Skipper Belozoglu Emre misses this game because of edema in his leg. There are doubts over the fitness of both Gokhan Zan and Servet Cetin, with the former almost certainly out, and the latter having just a minor chance to play. Hamit Altintop vs Tranquillo Barnetta will be an interesting clash, as the Swiss tend to route their moves through him. The referee may be keeping a sharp eye on Sanli Tuncay after his ”dives” against Portugal. In a game of such importance, playacting will not score any points with the referee. Kazim Kazim was good against Portugal, and will look to carry his form into this game.

Minus some of their key players, the Turks face a tough task. Home advantage could work to the advantage of the Swiss. Switzerland to win 2-0, with Yakin and Barnetta on the scoresheet. The second goal would most probably be on the counter, as the team trailing pushes men forward in order to equalise. Interesting game, but the Swiss should clinch it if they play the same way as they did against the Czech.