DURBAN, South Africa – Switzerland pulled off a shock victory at the World Cup on Wednesday, beating European champion Spain 1-0 in their opening group match.
Gelson Fernandes bundled the ball into the net in the 52nd minute in one of Switzerland’s few attacks, ending Spain’s 12-match winning streak and handing the Spanish team only its second loss in 50 games.
“Today wasn’t our day,” Spain coach Vicente del Bosque said. “We have two games ahead of us. We have to find a way to win them.”
Spain, one of the pre-tournament favorites, dominated possession throughout the match, but could find no way through Switzerland’s determined defense.
“We had plenty of chances but they defended very well,” Spain defender Gerard Pique said. “I don’t think we adapted adequately to their game.”
Eren Derdiyok created Switzerland’s goal by surging through the center of Spain’s defense and getting around goalkeeper Iker Casillas. Gerard Pique’s tackle stopped Derdiyok, but Fernandes pounced on the loose ball and forced it into the net.
“To be fair, I’m not used to scoring goals, so I was a bit surprised,” Fernandes said. “It was a bit of luck.”
At the final whistle, Fernandes fell to his knees and raised both arms to the sky. The entire team then went to the small section of Swiss fans at the Moses Mabhida Stadium and saluted them as they cheered and rang cow bells.
