Match Centre

Switzerland's 3-0 victory was a fair reflection of their dominance, with the hosts generating 20 shots (7 on target) compared to FYR Macedonia's meagre 3 (0 on target). Despite 57% possession translating to just 0.8 expected goals (xG) per shot, their territorial superiority told as Fabian Rieder's 43rd-minute opener broke Macedonian resistance before late goals from Johan Manzambi (73') and Dan Ndoye (81') sealed it.

The visitors offered almost no attacking threat, failing to register a single shot on target and mustering just 0.2 xG from three attempts. Defensive lapses proved costly - all three Swiss goals came from inside the box against a backline that blocked no shots. Ndoye was particularly influential, contributing a goal and assist while completing 4 dribbles (83% success).

The decisive stat? FYR Macedonia's total shots (3) matched Switzerland's shots on target in just the first half (3), underlining the gulf in quality between the sides.