On the night of Saturday to Sunday (3 a.m.) in Kansas City, the Swiss team will face Argentina in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup. For the Nati, it will be a gala duel against the reigning world champion and Lionel Messi. For the Albiceleste, it will be a match where victory will be obligatory against a weaker opponent.
Even if Argentina will be the huge favorite of this meeting, the local press is very wary of the selection led by Murat Yakin. Although she is surprised not to cross paths with Colombia. “Switzerland is less talented than Colombia, but it is more physical, more experienced and very well structured,” writes The Nation.
The tactical organization put in place by Murat Yakin is also the main source of fear in Argentina. “The Albiceleste will face one of the most complex tactical challenges of this World Cup, believes The Economist. Switzerland has built its course on an exemplary defensive organization and perfectly oiled collective play. We will have to be patient.”
As in 2014 in Brazil, during the previous confrontation between the two teams during a World Cup. Argentina had to wait until the 118th minute to take the lead in the round of 16 (1-0 success). “This serves as a reminder to us. Switzerland is a very demanding opponent,” adds The Economist.
Xhaka and Embolo to watch
In addition to Johan Manzambi, whose participation is more than compromised due to a bruised knee, the Argentine media point out two players to watch as a priority: Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo.
“Granit Xhaka dictates the tempo, all the offensive play starts from him, analyzes TyC Sports. As for Breel Embolo, he excels in playing with his back to goal and in keeping the ball. Argentina will have to limit the scope of these two players.
The Argentine press respects the Swiss team. However, she still finds weaknesses in him. In particular, his offensive animation is far from impressive.
