Zeki Amdouni scored twice as Switzerland cruised to a 3-0 victory over North Macedonia in their UEFA Nations League opener on Saturday.
The visitors controlled the contest from the outset despite the absence of captain Granit Xhaka, forcing North Macedonia deep into their own half and creating several openings.
Remo Freuler put Switzerland ahead midway through the first half after controlling Amdouni’s cushioned header before calmly firing into the corner.
Switzerland continued to dominate and came close to extending their lead when Dan Ndoye struck the far post with a powerful effort.
North Macedonia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski also produced a fine save to deny Johan Manzambi.
The pressure finally paid off again just before the interval.
Zachary Athekame’s cut-back found Amdouni, who swept the ball home to give Switzerland a 2-0 advantage at half-time.
North Macedonia were given a scare early in the second half when Matej Gashtarov was initially sent off for a challenge on Manzambi.
However, after reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor, referee Daniel Schlager overturned the red card and showed him a yellow.
Dimitrievski kept the hosts in the contest with another important stop against Ndoye, but there was little he could do when Amdouni weaved his way through the defence before placing his shot into the corner for Switzerland’s third goal.
The Burnley forward was denied a hat-trick late on when Dimitrievski saved his effort from 12 yards.
Switzerland nevertheless secured a convincing away victory to move top of Group B1, while North Macedonia extended their winless run to nine matches.
