North Macedonia 0-3 Switzerland: Embolo and Xhaka Inspire Dominant Swiss Display

Switzerland delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over North Macedonia in their UEFA Nations League clash on September 27, 2026, with Breel Embolo, Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka all finding the net. The result in Skopje was rarely in doubt after Switzerland took an early lead and controlled the tempo of the match.

North Macedonia struggled to cope with Switzerland’s pressing and movement, especially in midfield. The visitors were sharper in every department, creating chances throughout and defending with composure when the home side briefly threatened.

Match Overview

Switzerland needed only 18 minutes to break the deadlock. Breel Embolo found space between the centre-backs and finished calmly after a well-weighted pass from midfield. North Macedonia tried to respond, but their attacks were fragmented, and Switzerland’s back line dealt with crosses comfortably.

The second half brought more of the same. Ruben Vargas doubled the lead in the 52nd minute with a low drive after cutting in from the left. Granit Xhaka added a third from the penalty spot in the 74th minute, putting the result beyond doubt and allowing Switzerland to manage the closing stages.

Key Moments

• 18' – Switzerland 1-0: Breel Embolo beats the defensive line and slots a composed finish past the goalkeeper.
• 39' – North Macedonia chance: A header from a corner drifts just wide of the far post.
• 52' – Switzerland 2-0: Ruben Vargas cuts inside from the left and fires a low shot into the bottom corner.
• 74' – Switzerland 3-0: Granit Xhaka converts a penalty after a foul in the box.
• 83' – Swiss control: Switzerland slow the game down, keeping possession and denying North Macedonia any late hope.

Tactical Story

Switzerland set up with a fluid 4-2-3-1 that allowed Xhaka to dictate from deep while the attacking players rotated freely. Embolo’s movement stretched North Macedonia’s back three, and Vargas’s pace on the left caused persistent problems. The Swiss press was well organised, often forcing the home side into long balls that were easily defended.

North Macedonia tried to build through midfield but were repeatedly closed down. Their wing-backs pushed forward in search of width, leaving gaps behind that Switzerland exploited on the counter. By the time the penalty was awarded, the game had already taken on a one-sided feel.

Standout Players

Granit Xhaka was the metronome in midfield, controlling possession and scoring the third goal from the spot. Breel Embolo led the line with strength and intelligence, while Ruben Vargas added energy and end product on the flank. For North Macedonia, the goalkeeper made several saves to prevent a heavier defeat, but the team struggled to create meaningful chances.

Season Impact

Switzerland move into a strong position in the group, with their goal difference boosted by a convincing away win. North Macedonia, meanwhile, must recover quickly after a difficult night in Skopje. The Swiss performance sent a clear message: they intend to challenge for top spot, and their blend of experience and attacking pace makes them a dangerous opponent in the UEFA Nations League.