After Switzerland's 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, former Swiss international Dzemaili praised Akanji's performance.
Dzemaili told Swiss media outlet Blick: "I have to single out one person, because I have criticized him in the past, and that is Akanji. Apart from Manzambi, he was the best player on the pitch, in my opinion. I have not seen Akanji play this well in five or six years. He had a fantastic game."
"For five or ten minutes before the water break, we struggled. In moments like these, the team needs leaders. Akanji did an excellent job leading the team during that period. He led by example, putting everything into challenges and winning almost all of them."
"Manzambi? Of course, everyone is praising him now. A performance like that will make you remembered. At the same time, the FA, coaches, and teammates all need to keep an eye on him, although I don't think he's the type to get carried away."