Argentina faces Switzerland in World Cup 2026 quarter-final showdown
Argentina meets Switzerland tonight in the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals. The defending champions hope to secure their spot in the final four and edge closer to retaining their title.
Lionel Messi and his teammates arrive at this match after a hard-fought 3-2 comeback victory against Egypt in the round of 16. The team now faces a difficult test against a talented Swiss squad.
Manager Murat Yakin led his team past Colombia on penalties to reach the final eight. Given Switzerland’s proven ability to challenge top opponents, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni remains cautious after his side’s narrow escape against Egypt.
The match between Argentina and Switzerland kicks off at 2am BST on Sunday, 12 July, in Kansas City, where it will be 8pm local time.
How can I watch it?
United Kingdom viewers can watch the live broadcast on ITV, with coverage starting at 1.15am BST. The network also provides a live stream through ITVX.
Who will the winner face next?
The victor of this quarter-final moves on to play either Norway or England in the semi-finals. That match takes place in Atlanta on Wednesday, 15 July, at 8pm BST.
Team news
Lionel Scaloni has a full squad available and must choose the best lineup to overcome the Swiss defense. He will select either Julian Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez to start alongside Lionel Messi in the attack. The coach also faces a decision at left-back, where he must choose between starting Facundo Medina or Nicolas Tagliafico.
Possible Argentina XI: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Martinez, Tagliafico; De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, Alvarez, Almada.
Switzerland manager Murat Yakin has fitness concerns regarding Michel Aebischer and Luca Jaquez. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Johan Manzambi remains sidelined with a knee injury that forced him to miss the win over Colombia. That injury likely keeps Manzambi out for at least two weeks, potentially ending his World Cup campaign.
Possible Switzerland XI: Kobel; Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Jashari, Xhaka, Freuler; Ndoye; Embolo, Rieder.
