Newcastle United star Fabian Schar was on the end of some heartbreak at Euro 2024 on Saturday.
Indeed, while there was joy for the likes of Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon (despite not playing), another key Newcastle star left Saturday’s quarter-final with huge disappointment.
Schar’s Switzerland lost on penalties to England in Dusseldorf, proving unable to hold a late lead in regulation time before arguably looking the more likely in extra-time.
Still, it wasn’t to be for the Swiss, with Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji missing his spot-kick in the shootout.
Naturally, a hugely disappointed Schar took to Instagram after the game and Newcastle teammate Emil Krafth showed his support.
Emil Krafth responds after Fabian Schar is knocked out of Euro 2024
Schar posted a collage of the Swiss players applauding the supporters after their defeat, with the caption reading: “Is still hard to find the right words.. sometimes football can be cruel and it will take a few days to get over it… but i am also proud of this team. We have shown what we are capable of!”
Krafth, who recently signed a new contract at St James’ Park, responded with two hands up emojis as well as a love heart.
Fabian Schar proved Micah Richards wrong
Schar, who suffered a broken nose during the tournament, was highlighted by pundit Micah Richards before the game.
He suggested that while the defender was no doubt a good player, he would struggle should England stretch him into wide positions.
Broadly, that didn’t happen all too much during the game, both because of how well organised the Swiss were and England’s relative struggles in attack.
According to WhoScored data, Schar made four tackles, the most in the Swiss squad. His one interception was only equalled by two teammates, while he also ranked in the top four for clearances (3).
But for a thunderstrike from Bukayo Saka, Schar and the Swiss defence largely did a very good job of denying England much joy.
Now, let’s hope he brings that kind of form back to Newcastle next season.
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