Paul Pogba struck the crossbar twice in France's draw with Switzerland ©Getty Images

Switzerland joined France in the knock-out stage of the 2016 UEFA European Championships after playing out a goalless draw with the host nation at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, while Albania earned their first victory at a major tournament.

The French team had already booked their place in the knock-out stage with wins over Albania and Romania, but the home fans were hopeful of an improved display having laboured to their early triumphs.

However, Switzerland nearly took an early lead from a corner with Paul Pogba being forced to hack clear from near his goal.

The midfielder was then able to show his attacking abilities by hitting a well struck shot towards the Swiss goal, which was turned onto the bar by goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Pogba was again denied by the goalkeeper with a powerful left foot strike and before the half-time whistle saw a powerful long-range effort strike the crossbar and bounce clear.

With Switzerland continuing to frustrate France, the hosts turned to substitute Dimitri Payet, who had been rested after his starring roles in the first two matches of the tournament.

The 29-year-old nearly made the difference again after he fired a volley onto the crossbar after a surging run and cross from Moussa Sissoko.

Switzerland were able to hold on to claim the 0-0 draw which saw them advance to the last 16 of the tournament as Group A runners-up, while France topped the standings.

Armando Sadiku scored Albania's winning goal in their tie with Romania
Armando Sadiku scored Albania's winning goal in their tie with Romania ©Getty Images

Albania now face an anxious wait to see whether they have done enough to join the two nations, after they secured a 1-0 win over Romania to finish third in the group.

Their hopes of the a first ever victory at a major tournament were dented when Ermir Lenjani missed a glorious chance in the first half, with the midfielder blazing over the crossbar from close range when left unmarked at the back post.

Armando Sadiku spared his team-mates blushes when he headed over Romania’s goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu, on the brink of half-time, to score Albania’s first event goal at the Championships.

The strike was enough to clinch a historic win for his nation, although they were given a scare when Florin Andone struck the crossbar for Romania in the second half.

Albania will now hope to be one of the best four third-placed teams at the end of the group stage to progress to the knock-out stage.