Switzerland handed over a rapidly obtained 2-0 lead against Portugal on Saturday evening during the European Championship. The duel between the group mates of the Orange Women ended in 2-2.
After a defeat against Russia in the play-offs, Portugal seemed to miss a World Cup ticket, but at the beginning of May the Southern European country was still added to the field. Portugal moved on after Russia was banned by UEFA for invading Ukraine.
Portugal got off to a dramatic start in Leigh. Within five minutes, the number thirty in the FIFA rankings faced a 0-2 deficit due to hits from Coumba Sow and Rahel Kiwic. Sow struck from distance in the second minute, after which Kiwic struck with the head in the fifth minute.
Portugal then slowly fought back into the game, although the team of coach Francisco Neto could barely create any opportunities.
Portugal shows resilience in the second half
That changed after the resumption. Switzerland was pushed back and after 59 minutes Diana Gomes scored the connecting goal by using a rebound. Portugal remained dominant and through a placed shot by Jéssica Silva it even became equal after 66 minutes. Switzerland was upset and saw wave after wave of attack coming at it.
In the very exciting final phase, both teams had plenty of opportunities for victory, but there was no winner in Leigh.
Portugal continues the European Championship against the Netherlands on Wednesday, which will play against Sweden later on Saturday. The team from Scandinavia will be the next opponent of Switzerland on Wednesday.
The program in group C
- July 9: Portugal-Switzerland (2-2)
- July 9: Netherlands-Sweden
- July 13: Sweden-Switzerland
- July 13: Netherlands-Portugal
- July 17: Switzerland-Netherlands
- July 17: Sweden-Portugal