Published: Jun 16, 2014, 12:00 AM (IST)
Edited: Jun 16, 2014, 12:01 AM (IST)
Brasilia: Jun 15, 2014
Haris Seferovic smashed a winner in dying moments as Switzerland made some superb substitutions for a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ecuador in their Group E opener of the FIFA World Cup 2014 on Sunday. Substitute Seferovic’s goal in stoppage time changed the outcome of the game sensationally as it was headed for a draw.
Swiss coach Ottmar Hitzfeld made some superb changes and his side benefited immensely, coming back from conceding an early goal. The two sides were locked 1-1 after 90 minutes but a frenetic move from right to left handed Seferovic an opportunity and slammed home the winner for his side.
With two sides meeting for the first time in an international match, it was expected to be a contest between Switzerland’s tight defence and Ecuador’s energetic attack but it turned out to be a different story. Ecudaor’s attack had Switzerland gasping initially as they struggled to get hold of the ball in the opening moments and took some time to settle in humid conditions.
The world number six, found themselves down by a goal in the 22nd minute when Ecuador striker Enner Valencia headed from close range on free kick. Stephane Lichtsteiner did his side no good when he brought down rival skipper Antonio Valencia, the Manchester United winger, as Ecuador earned a free-kick, which led to the first goal of the match. Walter Ayovi sent a well calculated free-kick and Enner Valencia headed from close range to stun the Swiss side.
Rattled, Switzerland intensified attacks and won as many as six corners but none of them could be converted. Valentin Stocker’s header went to the wrong side of the post and Valeron Behrami’s shot was easily collected by Ecuador keeper Alexander Dominguez. Winger Stephane Lichtsteiner, midfielder Granit Xharka and Xherdan Shaqiri created a few good moves, but lacked execution.
However, the Europeans woke up and coach Hitzfeld’s move to replace midfielder Valentin Stocker with Admir Mehmedi immediately after the break proved a master stroke as the winger won his side equaliser within two minute of stepping on the pitch. Mehmedi sent in a thunderous header from inside the six-yard box to get equaliser for his side in the 47th minute.
