Strong First Half in Valladolid — Focus Shifts to Crucial Home Clash in Yverdon
Switzerland opened confidently against Spain in Round 2 of the Rugby Europe Championship, but after a 14:14 halftime score ultimately fell 53:14 as attention now turns to an important home fixture against the Netherlands on 22 February.
Round 2 – Rugby Europe Championship – Valladolid
Switzerland produced an encouraging first half performance in Valladolid but ultimately fell 53–14 to Spain in Round 2 of the Rugby Europe Championship.
Strong Swiss Start
The visitors opened the scoring in the 12th minute when flanker Nicolas Mousties powered over the try line after a determined phase of play. Switzerland doubled their lead in the 23rd minute through lock Martin Even, who marked his first international cap with a close-range pick-and-go try. Fly-half Willy Gonnet converted both scores, giving Switzerland a deserved 14-point tally. Spain responded with two tries of their own, sending both teams into halftime level at 14:14.
Second Half Shift
Spain increased intensity and territorial control after the break, dominating possession and capitalising on opportunities to secure a 53:14 bonus-point victory.
Swiss captain Samuel SJOBERG reflected honestly after the match:
“We fell off in the second half. We need to identify what was missing, analyse the game, learn from it and fix the problems for next week against the Netherlands.”
Focus on Round 3
Attention now turns immediately to Round 3 of the REC 2026 campaign.
Switzerland returns home to Yverdon-les-Bains, where they will host the Netherlands at Stade Municipal on:
📅 Sunday, 22 February 2026
⏰ Kick-off: 13:00
Following the men’s fixture, the Swiss Women’s National Team will take on Germany in a friendly match at 15:15 — promising a full afternoon of international rugby.
The team counts on the support of the Swiss rugby family as preparations begin for a crucial home fixture.
🎟 Tickets are still available on pre-sales but can also be purchased on match day at the stadium.
Secure your tickets here: https://suisse-rugby.odoo.com/event/suisse-rugby-day-rec-2026-suisse-vs-pays-bas-153/register