Despite labeling Italy as one of the favourites to win the Euros, Lichtsteiner believes the Red Crosses can upset the Azzurri at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Roberto Mancini’s side are widely considered as one of the teams to hoist the ongoing tournament and their reputation was enhanced last Friday when they comprehensively beat Turkey 3-0 in the opening game.
Italy have now won their last nine games in a row with 28 goals scored and zero conceded, but Lichtsteiner believes his compatriots can beat the Italians.
“Players like Behrami and Dzemaili played at high levels for many years and their experience could have been useful in the dressing room. The team is younger now, there is the desire to win and I am sure they will go beyond the group stage,” the 37-year-old said.
“Switzerland’s best quality is the organization. The lads always know what to do on the pitch. Switzerland are very competitive and they have players who can make the difference at any moment.
“The group is united, and they know how to face difficult moments during a game.
“They were criticized a little bit after the draw against Wales, but I think we played a good game, we created many opportunities, but we only scored once.”
He added: “I was travelling, so I could only watch a few bits of the game against Turkey, but I saw the usual great quality.
“France are the absolute favourite to win the competition, but Italy can do it. They have a great coach who is doing an extraordinary job. Italy have great players and they also play at home.
“Switzerland play the first and the third game of the group stage in Baku. They will return to Azerbaijan after tonight’s game. I went there for the Europa League Final with Arsenal [in 2018] and it’s an endless journey.
“Tiredness can have an impact and Italy won’t have this problem at the beginning of the tournament.”
