The England Under-21s were dealt a sucker punch in added time when Shani Tarashaj scored for Switzerland Under-21s in the closing stages of the first half in their Euro 2017 qualifier in Brighton.
The Young Lions began the game on the attack with Dominic Solanke getting some space on the left-hand side numerous times in the opening minutes.
Gareth Southgate's side edged closer to an opening goal when Matt Targett sent a pin-point cross towards Ruben Loftus-Cheek, but Martin Angha spotted the movement of the ball and headed clear.
It was not the best clearance from the defender, though, as the ball went straight to Solly March, who fluffed his opportunity as he sent a half-volley wide of the post.
England dominated the possession, but they struggled to cause much damage with it, despite sending plenty of decent crosses into the box.
Around the 20-minute mark, Lewis Baker showed some initiative by storming into the area, but as he tried to set himself up for a shot, he slipped over and the opportunity went missing.
The tempo slowed down as Switzerland frustrated their opponents at the Amex Stadium, but John Swift created a chance by latching on to Baker's cross.
The Chelsea midfielder was unable to make the most of it, though, as he mis-controlled the ball and failed to get a shot on target.
The first goal of the game came when Tarashaj managed to beat goalkeeper Jordan Pickford by latching on to a long ball over the top before slotting home, but the half ended in misery for the Swiss player, who suffered an injury shortly after scoring.
The Young Lions need a win to keep themselves at the top of their qualifying group.
Danielle Joynson
Spain U21s
