The Swiss were obviously trying hard, and with every attack they tried to launch under the evening sun of Winterthur, 5,323 spectators yelled expectantly from the stands on the Schützenwiese in Winterthur. But in the last preparatory game before the World Cup, the Inky Grings team failed to score.

While he managed three of them against Zambia on Friday, block shots by Kumba Sow, Ana Maria Crnogorcevic and Meriam Terchun in the second half were the most dangerous situations the Swiss could create this time around. Fabienne Hamm, who came on as a late-stage substitute and had shone with late goals in the past, didn’t know how to act either.

Still no victory at Grings

However, as Switzerland played more solidly defensively than last time with the experienced Gael Thalmann in goal, they were in contention for a tie, fifth in six games under Grings. In the last seconds, the 37-year-old athlete held on thanks to strong intervention. Despite all the attacking efforts, it seemed that the Swiss would not act with the utmost determination. The danger of injury a few days before leaving for New Zealand seemed to be an obstacle, especially since Iman Benei had torn his cruciate ligament only at the last training session.

The Moroccans made history before the Australian and New Zealand tournaments by becoming the first Arab team to qualify for the Women’s World Cup. French coach Reynald Pedrosa’s team will start their World Cup adventure on July 24th, three days after Switzerland. At the start with Germany, a two-time world champion awaits.

short telegram:

Switzerland 0-0 Morocco

Winterthur. – 5323 spectators. – SR Wacker (GERMANY).

Switzerland: Thalmann; Aigbogun (Maritz 63), Buhler, Stirli, Riesen; Reiteler (63rd Terchoun), Sow (90th Rei), Tsrnogorchevich; Piubel, Bachmann (83rd Hamm), Lehmann (46th Mauron).

Notes: Switzerland without Kalligaris and Välti (both rested) and Beni (injured). Warnings: 46. Saud. 91. Segir.

(sda/fho)