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Switzerland snatch win in dying minutes from Ecuador

Substitute Seferovic's goal in stoppage time changed the outcome of the game sensationally as it was headed for a draw

Switzerland's Haris Seferovic, second from right, celebrates scoring his side's second goal with teammates during the group E World Cup soccer match between Switzerland and Ecuador at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia, Brazil

Press Trust of India Brasilia
Haris Seferovic smashed a winner in dying moments as Switzerland made some superb substitutions for a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ecuador in their Group E opener of the FIFA World Cup, here on Sunday.

Substitute Seferovic's goal in stoppage time changed the outcome of the game sensationally as it was headed for a draw.

Swiss coach Ottmar Hitzfeld made some superb changes and his side benefited immensely, coming back from conceding an early goal.

The two sides were locked 1-1 after 90 minutes but a frenetic move from right to left handed Seferovic an opportunity and slammed home the winner for his side.
 
With two sides meeting for the first time in an international match, it was expected to be a contest between Switzerland's tight defence and Ecuador's energetic attack but it turned out to be a different story.

Ecudaor's attack had Switzerland gasping initially as they struggled to get hold of the ball in the opening moments and took some time to settle in humid conditions.

The world number six, found themselves down by a goal in the 22nd minute when Ecuador striker Enner Valencia headed from close range on free kick.

Stephane Lichtsteiner did his side no good when he brought down rival skipper Antonio Valencia, the Manchester United winger, as Ecuador earned a free-kick, which led to the first goal of the match. Walter Ayovi sent a well calculated free-kick and Enner Valencia headed from close range to stun the Swiss side.

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First Published: Jun 15 2014 | 11:45 PM IST

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