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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 11:38 a.m., Sunday, June 15, 2008

Soccer: Switzerland beats Portugal 2-0

By BRADLEY S. KLAPPER
Associated Press Writer

BASEL, Switzerland — Hakan Yakin scored twice today to give Switzerland a 2-0 victory over Portugal, helping the co-host end its European Championship with a first-ever win at the tournament.

With Portugal already through to the quarterfinals as Group A winner and the Swiss eliminated after two losses, Yakin opened the scoring after a flicked pass by fellow striker Eren Derdiyok in the 71st minute. He shot through the legs of goalkeeper Ricardo from about 14 yards.

Yakin added his second goal on a penalty kick in the 83rd after Fernando Meira was judged to have fouled substitute Tranquillo Barnetta.

It sealed Switzerland's first win in three European Championship appearances, albeit against a Portugal team that rested eight starters, including stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco. Portugal plays Thursday against the Group B runner-up.

Until Yakin's goals, Portugal winger Nani missed the best chance in the 53rd when he shot wide when one-on-one with goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuehler, who started in place of usual No. 1 Diego Benaglio.

The veteran Zuberbuehler, who is retiring after the tournament along with coach Koebi Kuhn, then made a key save five minutes later on a low 20-yard shot by Ricardo Quaresma.