Messi and FIFA’s Argentina continue their “destined” title defense on the global stage. This time, a resilient La Albiceleste, closing in on a second consecutive crown, returns to action at Kansas City to face a Swiss side aiming to reach a first-ever semifinal.
It's a World Cup quarterfinal on Sunday, July 12, as Switzerland travels to Kansas City to face an Argentina side that is unbeaten in 11 tournament matches. Switzerland boss Murat Yakin will be aiming to break brand new ground after surviving tense knockout rounds.
Team Form
Argentina: Unbeaten in 11 World Cup matches while scoring at least twice each time.
Switzerland: Yet to trail at any point across this whole World Cup campaign.
Key Stats & Head-to-Head
Argentina has won both major tournament meetings with Switzerland, including a 1-0 victory in Brazil.
Switzerland has never beaten Argentina in seven previous attempts across their history.
Argentina has secured 12 straight wins since last September, showing immense winning momentum.
Lionel Messi has been clinical in the tournament, netting eight goals for the South American side.
Switzerland are in the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954.
Their round of 16 win over Colombia produced just 0.7 combined xG in 90 minutes, the lowest at this tournament.
Xhaka, Zakaria and Muheim are one booking away from a semifinal suspension.
What to Expect From Both Teams
Argentina | World Cup Form: WWWWW:
Lionel Scaloni's side enters this clash with immense confidence, looking to preserve a formidable winning streak in front of their global fans.
With a squad featuring seasoned veterans like Lionel Messi and clinical finishers like Lautaro Martinez, they provide a stern test for any opposing nation.
Having survived a deep hole against Egypt in the last round, this fixture against European opposition is a strategic move to secure a semifinal spot.
Switzerland | World Cup Form: DWWWW:
Murat Yakin's men are looking to extend a solid defensive run where they are yet to trail at any point across this campaign.
Despite selection concerns over the injured Johan Manzambi, the Swiss still boast experienced heads like Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler.
With a potential semifinal match against England or Norway looming next, finding their rhythm in Kansas City this weekend is a top priority for the technical bench.
Predicted Lineups
Argentina (possible):
E. Martínez, Molina, Romero, Li Martínez, Tagliafico, De Paul, Paredes, Fernández, Mac Allister, Messi, La. Martinez.
Switzerland (possible):
Kobel, Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez, Jashari, Xhaka, Freuler, Ndoye, Embolo, Vargas.
Matchups & Players to Watch
Xhaka: The Sunderland midfielder’s work rate will be needed when his side comes up against an Argentina side that can’t be beaten.
Enzo Fernandez: A vital cog in the Argentina engine room who will be tasked with disrupting Switzerland's solid midfield stars.
Lionel Messi: Arrives in great form, having netted eight goals this season, posing a constant threat from open play.
Breel Embolo: The Rennes striker will be expected to lead the line and break the deadlock for the Swiss side.
Odds Market on MSport
Argentina/Home to win = 1.75
Switzerland/Away to win = 5.63
Both teams to score (GG/NG Yes) = 2.16
Over 2.5 total goals = 2.25
This clash presents a classic clash of momentum: a dominant reigning champion in Argentina faces a Switzerland team desperate to break brand-new ground this summer.
With both teams using this as a vital dress rehearsal for the semifinals, Kansas City is set for a compelling World Cup night.
