Slovenia suffers heavy defeat against Switzerland

A powerless Slovenia suffered a 0:3 defeat at the hands of Switzerland in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Basel. They conceded all three goals to the Group B favourites in the first half.

Nico Elvedi opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a precise header from a Ruben Vargas corner. Breel Embolo added a second in the 33rd minute, again with a header following a corner. Dan Ndoye sealed the outcome with a close-range finish in the 38th, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.

The Swiss were efficient with strong territorial control, effective execution, and three goals inside 20 minutes. Slovenia were powerless in attack, having no corner kicks or shots on target until late in the first half.

The half-time break did not bring change either, and Slovenia's first shot attempt did not come until the 65th minute.

Slovenia coach Matjaž Kek was blunt in his post-match analysis. "Congratulations to Switzerland for a thoroughly deserved win. They showed how you can play football simply and effectively."

Referring to last week's draw with Sweden, he said the team had "collapsed in three days" and presented a completely different face than against Sweden.

"We must not concede goals like the first two. At times, it was really hard to watch."

After two rounds, Switzerland remain perfect. They have six points from two games with a +7 goal difference. Slovenia are on one point, tied with Sweden, while Kosovo sit second with three points.

The qualifying continues in October, when Slovenia play Kosovo on the road and Switzerland at home.

"In a month we have a new match and we'll need to show character. Today was beyond bad, even the players' body language wasn't worthy of the national jersey," Kek said.