Early concession burdens Switzerland, Kobel stresses strong reaction

The Swiss national team fell behind in the Nations League match against Slovenia in Lucerne after just 1 minute and 28 seconds due to an own goal by Gregor Kobel, even before the end of the first half. The goalkeeper called the start a horror, but highlighted the team’s immediate reaction.

Cheerful welcome in Lucerne

The fans in Lucerne welcomed the Nati with great anticipation, as it was the first home game since the World Cup. The atmosphere was loud and warm, everything was set for a pleasant football evening. The unfamiliar situation of falling behind early was, however, accompanied by the spectators with loud cheers.

Match progression and coaches' comments

Kobel had to fish the ball out of the net behind him, a feeling he had not experienced yet in this Nations League campaign. “For us it was of course a horror start. But it was also a very good reaction of us that we did not let ourselves be influenced,” Kobel said after the match. Jan Oblak commented on the Slovenian own goal: “Sure, it doesn’t look good at the first goal, but that is part of it. What distinguishes him then, of course, is that he keeps going and stays cool, that he does not let himself be influenced.”

Dan Ndoye equalised shortly before the break, after the Slovenian own goal reopened the game. Nati coach Murat Yakin praised the response: “A great reaction,” and Remo Freuler added: “We also have to be modest today, we have not called upon our best performance and our best potential.”

Johan Manzambi explained that he had not heard the famous “Ballon d’Or” chants of the fans, but wants to pay attention next time. After an action in the final phase he confirmed that his knee was fine: “Everything is okay, including the knee. I know that my knee is healthy and I have no more thoughts about it.”

Yakin pointed out that Manzambi was his third game from the start and that after a long, difficult injury he must stay cautious. He emphasized that such players are not liked to be substituted, and named Winsley Boteli as well as Alvyn Sanches as possible alternatives.

For the upcoming duel against North Macedonia, Manzambi could receive a break, while the coaches continue to review the line‑up. The Nati therefore remains flexible for the next Nations League matches.