Granit Xhaka blasts referee after red card in Euro 2024 quarter-final loss

Granit Xhaka accused the referee of ruining Switzerland’s Euro 2024 quarter-final against Argentina on 5 July 2024 after he was sent off for a second booking in the 57th minute.

What happened in the match?

Switzerland lost 1-0 to Argentina in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on 5 July 2024. The game turned on Xhaka’s red card, which came after he picked up a booking for a foul on Enzo Fernández in the 35th minute. His second yellow arrived for a late challenge on Nicolás Otamendi, leaving his team with ten men and no clear path to recovery.

The only goal came from Julián Álvarez in the 68th minute. Argentina controlled the game after the dismissal, with Emiliano Martínez making key saves to preserve the lead. Xhaka played 56 minutes before his exit as Switzerland struggled to create chances in the second half.

Why did Xhaka criticize the referee?

Xhaka argued the referee’s decisions killed the game’s flow. In a post-match interview, he said the first booking was harsh and the second avoidable. His frustration mirrored Switzerland’s wider complaints about officiating in the tournament, with fans and pundits questioning consistency in key calls.

The red card meant Xhaka missed Switzerland’s next match, a 2-1 semi-final loss to France on 9 July 2024. His absence left a midfield void, with Granit Freuler and Manuel Akanji struggling to fill the gap against a stronger French side.

What’s next for Xhaka and Switzerland?

Xhaka will return to club duty with Arsenal in the Premier League, where he remains a key midfield anchor. His suspension for the semi-final ended his Euro 2024 run, but the tournament exposed both his leadership and Switzerland’s tactical limits under Murat Yakin.

Swiss fans will debate whether the red card changed the tournament’s narrative. Without Xhaka, their defence looked shaky, and their attack lacked creativity. Now, focus shifts to club form as Xhaka aims to rediscover his rhythm at the Emirates Stadium after a summer of highs and controversies.