Preview: Argentina vs Switzerland – prediction, team news, fixtures | 2026 World Cup

After surviving a major scare, Argentina’s title defense will continue on Saturday, when they face Switzerland in the first leg. 2026 World Cup quarter-finals.

Closing in on a second straight title, La Albiceleste can book a place in the semi-finals against either England or Norway by beating an unfancied Swiss side in Kansas City.

Game preview

Having got themselves out of a tough situation against Cape Verde in the first round of the playoffs, Argentina managed to dig their way out of an even deeper hole last time out.

Last 16 Egypt led 2-0 with 11 minutes left on the clock, but a brave fight back – and controversial VAR calls – saw Lionel Scaloni’s side throw the tie completely on its head.

From the brink, Argentina came back with goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi – who was redeemed by missing a penalty – and Enzo Fernandez, leaving their fans in a state of general euphoria.

It was La Albiceleste’s 12th win in a row since last September, and they now stand just three away from another taste of world glory.

Although Messi and his teammates have shown signs of aging, their combination of skill and gentleness has gotten them this far.

Since losing their first match to Saudi Arabia at Qatar 2022, Argentina are unbeaten in 11 World Cup matches – while scoring at least twice each time – and that represents their best run.

History is also on South America’s side, having won both of the tournament’s biggest meetings with Switzerland – 2-0 in 1966, then 1-0 eight years ago in Brazil.

Including those World Cups, Switzerland have never beaten Argentina in their last seven attempts, tying for their career high.

Aiming to reach a first semi-final – they last reached their home ground in 1954 – the Swiss have looked solid if underwhelming so far.

Murat Yakin’s men started their campaign with a poor draw against Qatar, but responded by beating Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 and winning 2-1 against fellow tournament hosts Canada.

Having qualified for the knockout stage as Group B winners, Switzerland then knocked out Algeria earlier it went to Colombia on penalties.

Following a streak of no goals, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel was their hero in Vancouver, as the tense game ended 4-3.

A seasoned pragmatist, Yakin is positioning his side to prioritize defense over attack, and that approach has paid off: Switzerland are still trailing at any point throughout this World Cup campaign, including qualifying.

Now one of six European teams left in the last eight, they must beat the reigning champions to break new ground in Swiss football.

Argentina’s World Cup form:

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Argentina form (all competitions):

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Switzerland’s World Cup form:

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Swiss form (all competitions):

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Team News

© Consport / Zuma

Despite missing twice from the penalty spot, Messi still leads the close race for the Golden Boot with eight goals so far, and Argentina’s inspirational captain will lead them once again this weekend.

Julian Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez – who succeeded Fernandez late on against Egypt – will partner the first man to score in six consecutive World Cup qualifiers.

Another competition for selection will be at left back, where Facundo Medina and Nicolas Tagliafico continue to fight for one place.

Although Scloni should have a fully fit squad, Yakin has concerns about three players: Michel Aebischer, Luca Jaquez and Johan Manzambi who is closely watched in the Premier League.

The latter forced his way into the starting line-up and scored three goals before missing Switzerland’s last 16 match due to a knee injury; AC Milan’s Ardon Jashari has taken his place and may be retained.

Leading the way, Breel Embolo has been directly involved in 13 goals in his last 17 international matches.

Although he failed to record a shot and managed just one touch in the opposition box against Colombia, the Rennes striker should overcome competition from Zeki Amdouni and Cedric Itten.

Argentina may start the list:

E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, La. Martinez

Switzerland is likely to start the series:

Kobel; Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Jashari, Xhaka, Freuler; Ndoye, Embolo, Vargas

We say: Argentina 2-1 Switzerland

It’s been a rocky road between the knock-out rounds, but Argentina have once again shown deep resilience and a never-ending ability to dig deep.

One of the favorites of the tournament according to Sports Mole World Cup betting guidethe South American giants can beat a strong Swiss team and go on to retain the trophy.

For data analysis of the most likely results, score lines and more for this game please click here.