Manuel Akanji had his say after Switzerland lost 5-3 to England in the penalty shootout after the quarter-final clash between both sides at Euro 2024 finished 1-1 after extra-time.
Breel Embolo opened the scoring for Murat Yakin’s side — a man who is renowned for stepping up for the Swiss at major international tournaments.
The same can be said about Bukayo Saka — who scored an outstanding goal from outside the box to equalise in the 80th minute.
During extra-time, Akanji’s side were on top and looked likelier to get a late winner.
Manuel Akanji breaks silence after Switzerland lose to England
However, Saturday’s contest ended up going to a dreaded penalty shootout.
After Cole Palmer stepped up first and scored for England, Akanji was tasked to dispatch his spot-kick by the Swiss.
However, the £15 million man’s tame attempt was saved by Jordan Pickford. The Manchester City centre-back was visibly frustrated — screaming in anguish after his strike was stopped.
The likes of Fabian Schar, Xherdan Shaqiri and Zeki Amdouni went on to score from the spot but the Three Lions were flawless from 12 yards out — thanks to brilliant penalties from Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, Ivan Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
After Switzerland exited the European Championship at the hands of England, Akanji held his hands up for failing to score his penalty.
As quoted by journalist Ryan Taylor, the 28-year-old said: “I let my team down and let my country down.”
Manuel Akanji should be proud of how great he was at Euro 2024
Considering Akanji missed the penalty that sent Switzerland packing against England, it is understandable why he took the brunt of the blame after the game.
However, it is important to emphasise that even a top shotstopper like Yann Sommer could not save even one of England’s penalties, which were perfectly executed.
But more importantly, Akanji should be proud of his showings at Euro 2024 — emerging as one of the standout centre-backs at the tournament.
Even against England, the two-time Premier League winner pocketed Harry Kane, especially during their physical battles while his positioning to clear out any sign of danger Switzerland were under was excellent.
Against Italy in the Round of 16 as well, Akanji’s dominant display was a crucial reason why his side kept a clean sheet in their 2-0 victory.
The former Borussia Dortmund colossus would be justifiably devastated but at the end of the day, some of the greatest players in history have missed penalties in shootouts.
Akanji managed to have a brilliant tournament and at the 2026 World Cup, his Switzerland side will remain one of the competition’s dark horses.
