Spain 2-0 Switzerland: World champions through to semi-finals as hosts knocked out

The party might be over for Switzerland, but their players can hold their heads up high after pushing Spain harder than any other team has done so far.

Not only did the hosts reach the quarter-finals for the very first time, but they have captured the attention of a nation, with fans embracing football fever and filling out stadiums to cheer on Pia Sundhage's side.

On Friday evening, thousands of fans turned out for the pre-game fan walk from Bern city centre to Wankdorf Stadium - turning the streets red as they danced and chanted their way to the 29,800-capacity ground.

Some fans held up home-made signs that read "women's football is here to stay" and the sold-out crowd emphasised that sentiment by roaring their team on throughout the 90 minutes.

For Spain, their quest for the title goes on, but Switzerland prove there are weaknesses for their future opponents to exploit.

Alayah Pilgrim and Iman Beney provided a threat in behind, while their stubborn defence made it difficult for Spain to fashion many clear-cut chances, making them to resort to long-range efforts.

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