Borussia Dortmund internationals: Manuel Akanji stars as Switzerland end winless run

A strong performance from Manuel Akanji helped Switzerland end their winless run on Sunday as they claimed a hard fought 1-0 win over Portugal.

Switzerland and Portugal faced off in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday evening, with both teams in contrasting form going into the game. Portugal had won each of their last two games (including a 4-0 thrashing of Switzerland just one week ago), while Switzerland were on a three game losing run. But a resolute defensive showing from Manuel Akanji and co. helped Switzerland come out on top on Sunday.

Switzerland took the lead in the opening minute of the game, with Benfica striker Haris Seferovic getting on the end of Mainz 05 defender Silvan Widmer’s cross and heading the ball into the back of the net.

Portugal dominated possession after the goal, but they weren’t able to find a way past the stubborn Switzerland defence. Manuel Akanji did an excellent job of leading the Swiss defence. The Borussia Dortmund defender made seven clearances, one interception and also won the majority of his duels.

Switzerland goalkeeper Jonas Omlin also impressed, as he made a number of vital saves to prevent Portugal from getting back on level terms. And the hosts went on to claim the narrow win in Geneva, opening their account in the competition in the process.

Borussia Dortmund duo Gregor Kobel and Raphael Guerreiro both missed the game. Kobel was not included in the Switzerland squad, while Guerreiro was one of the players rested by Portugal head coach Fernando Santos and did not make the trip to Switzerland.