Italy end Switzerland's run

Switzerland 1-2 Italy
An experimental Italy side ended Switzerland's six-match unbeaten run with a 2-1 win at the new Stade de Genève in tonight's friendly international.

Early lead
The home side took the lead after just five minutes, as Alexander Frei, who has scored 13 goals in 18 games for French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais FC this season, continued his goalscoring run on the international stage, scoring his tenth goal in 17 international appearances to give his side the lead.

Rapid response
However, Italy were level within five minutes, as AC Chievo Verona defender Nicola Legrottaglie scored his first goal for his country on his third international appearance, heading Fabrizio Miccoli's corner into the net.

Zanetti heads winner
Both sides had further chances in an entertaining game, but Internazionale FC midfield player Cristiano Zanetti scored what proved to be the winning goal 15 minutes from time, also his first for Italy, heading a cross from substitute Massimo Oddo beyond goalkeeper Jörg Stiel.

Switzerland in form
Switzerland had not lost an international since being defeated by Canada in May 2002, and have begun their UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying campaign in fine form. After four games, Jakob Kuhn's team are top of Group 10 with eight points from four games. They next face a potentially critical game against second-placed Russia in Basel on 7 June.

Slow start
In contrast, Italy have stuttered somewhat, with an unconvincing win in Azerbaijan followed by a 1-1 draw at home to Serbia and Montenegro and a 2-1 defeat in Wales. However, a 2-0 win at home to Finland last time out means that Giovanni Trapattoni’s side lie second behind Wales, and next face a return fixture with Finland in Helsinki on 11 June.