Switzerland learn lessons on Middle East tour

Switzerland came through the two final tests before they announce their UEFA European Under-21 Championship squad with wins against the Saudia Arabia (2-1) and Qatar Olympic squads (5-3).

Grasshopper-Club players made a positive impact, with Toko Nzuzi (32) and Innocent Emeghara (80) scoring the goals against the Saudis on Saturday. The latter then marked his third appearance for the U21s with his second and third goals – both inside the first six minutes – as Qatar came unstuck on Tuesday.

Moreno Costanzo made it 3-0 in the 14th minute, and after Qatar pulled one back, FC Zürich's Admir Mehmedi scored two more before the break. However, the Swiss took their feet off the gas in the second period, with Qatar scoring two more to leave coach Pierluigi Tami with a few stern words for his players at full time.

"We started well, but then lost concentration and gave away gifts while we had all the possession," he said. "We have conceded goals and did not make the most of our chances. This has to improve." However, Tami had no regrets about the trip to the Middle East, saying: "We had a very good week and gained some new insight against decent opponents."