Scotland prepare to face Euro2025 hosts, Switzerland in a friendly

📸 BBC

Scotland head into their friendly against Switzerland looking to build momentum and consistency after a mixed run of results. Recent performances have shown flashes of promise, including a 2–1 win over Morocco, but also highlighted areas where the team needs greater stability and cutting edge.

The return of captain Rachel Corsie from injury and the gradual reintegration of Caroline Weir, who has come back from an ACL setback, are major boosts for head coach Melissa Andreatta. Their leadership and experience will be vital as Scotland aim to establish rhythm and control against a technically accomplished opponent.

Switzerland arrive in solid form and with a slightly higher FIFA ranking, reflecting their greater experience in major tournaments. Despite this, their squad has undergone changes, with key forward Ramona Bachmann sidelined due to a long-term ACL injury.

That absence has created opportunities for emerging talents like Leila Wandeler, the 19-year-old who has recently earned senior call-ups and could feature in this friendly. The Swiss are known for their structured, possession-based style, often operating in a 3-4-2-1 formation that allows them to dominate midfield areas and stretch opponents with intelligent wing play.

Tactically, this fixture promises an intriguing contrast. Scotland will likely rely on a 4-3-3 setup that emphasises direct transitions, width and physical duels. Their best moments often come from winning second balls and breaking quickly, using the creativity of Weir and the wide threat of players like Martha Thomas or Claire Emslie. Switzerland, in contrast, prefer a more patient buildup, looking to control the ball and create overloads through the middle before releasing runners behind the defence. Scotland’s defensive discipline, particularly how Corsie organises the back line, will be crucial to resisting that pressure.

Although this is a friendly, the game carries meaningful value for both sides. For Scotland, it’s an opportunity to measure progress under Andreatta, test new combinations and regain the confidence needed ahead of competitive fixtures. For Switzerland, it’s a chance to maintain consistency, assess squad depth and build towards Euro 2025 preparations. Both managers will likely use the match to experiment, but neither will want to lose the psychological edge that comes with victory.

In terms of prediction, the match is expected to be closely contested. Switzerland’s technical quality and composure in possession could give them a slight advantage, but Scotland’s resilience, home advantage and returning leaders make them more than capable of earning a result. A draw or a narrow Swiss win appears the most likely outcome, though a strong Scottish performance could easily tilt the balance.