2026 World Cup: Argentina vs. Switzerland, Probable Lineups

One is the clear favorite but has struggled against teams that, at least on paper, should be well within its reach; the other is a determined underdog, though it is effectively missing its best player for the second consecutive game. These are the main storylines heading into the final quarterfinal of the 2026 World Cup, which will feature Argentina and Switzerland at 3 a.m. Italian time on Sunday morning (Saturday night), 8 p.m. local time at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri.

Argentina, which had advanced from the group stage with convincing wins, has faltered in its two knockout matches, defeating Cape Verde 3-2 only after extra time and beating Egypt in last Sunday’s highly controversial round of 16 match, which it won by the same score (this time in regulation) after trailing 2-0 until the 78th minute. Leo Messi is the Albiceleste’s constant focal point: all decisive plays go through “La Pulga,” but against the Swiss, contributions from the rest of the team will also be crucial, especially on offense.

Switzerland, on the other hand, is looking to defy the odds and reach the semifinals for the first time in its history: However, they’ll have to do so without the talent of Joahn Manzambi, who—after scoring three goals and providing two assists—was injured before the match against Colombia, which they won on penalty kicks but without particularly shining. Aebischer and Jaquez are also questionable, both dealing with muscle issues: up front, Murat Yakin is hoping for a more effective Breel Embolo than the rather disappointing one seen against the Colombians.

Probable Lineups

ARGENTINA (4-1-3-2): E. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Tagliafico; Paredes; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Messi, Alvarez. Head Coach: Scaloni.

SWITZERLAND (4-2-3-1): Kobel; Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Freuler, Xhaka; Jashari, Vargas, Ndoye; Embolo. Head Coach: Yakin.