Argentina remain on course to defend their FIFA World Cup title but have to get past surprise package Switzerland in a highly anticipated quarterfinal match early Sunday morning in Kansas.
The 2022 champions overcame a huge scare, coming back from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 in an electric round of 16 clash last Tuesday. Lionel Messi scored his eighth goal of the World Cup to inspire the mighty comeback for his side.
Argentina are looking to make history by becoming the first country to win back-to-back World Cup titles since Brazil in 1958 and 1962. They are currently on a 12-game winning streak, making them likely favorites to retain the title.
They face a Switzerland side who are also unbeaten in their last eight games and come into this fixture on the back of winning four straight games. Coach Murat Yakin’s side have already made history by winning two knockout games at the World Cup for the first time.
Switzerland had to wait for penalties to edge Colombia 3-2 in the round of 16 and are keen to make it to the quarters for the first time since 1954.
With only one defeat in their last 12 matches, the Swiss bring an intimidating run of form into the match and with the wonders of the World Cup so far, they should not be overlooked even against the champions.
Plenty of controversy marred Argentina’s win against Egypt, with a disallowed goal for the Pharaoh’s and drama surrounding Messi’s missed penalty – we can definitely expect a thrilling encounter here.
Despite not losing at this World Cup, Argentina have been leaky in defense – letting in six goals in their last five matches, and if Switzerland’s form is anything to go by, they must not expect an easy encounter here.
Will Argentina find a way through to remain on course to win a second successive World Cup title, or can the Swiss continue their fairytale run in the tournament? Here is our predicted outcome.
What time does Argentina vs Switzerland start?
The match kicks off at 4AM E.A.T at the Arrowhead Stadium
Argentina vs Switzerland team news
The South Americans have no new injury concerns ahead of kickoff and are expected to field their strongest XI, which is almost a replica of their last game.
Julian Alvarez started up front and is the only likely change to be made here. Lautaro Martinez is expected to come into the starting XI in his place, to partner with Messi up front.
Messi has now scored in eight consecutive World Cup games and is tied at the top of the goalscoring charters in the 2026 edition, with eight goals.
Enzo Fernandez, who scored the winning goal against the Pharaohs, will retain his spot in the midfield alongside Rodrigo de Paul and Liverpool’s Alexis MacAllister.
There are no other changes expected here.
As for the Swiss, young midfield sensation Johan Manzambi was absent in the round of 32 due to a minor knee injury and is likely to sit this one out as well.
Dan Ndoye and Fabian Rieder were both instrumental on the flanks, and will retain their places in the starting lineup with the backing of Remo Freuler and Granit Xhaka in the holding roles.
Ardon Jashari started against Colombia but is likely to settle for a place on the bench as Djibril Sow is handed a start.
Argentina vs Switzerland head-to-head and current form
Lionel Scaloni’s side bring a 12-game winning run into this match, last losing a game in September 2025.
The Swiss on the other hand have won four of their last five games, dropping points in a 1-1 draw against Qatar in the group stage.
They have also never managed to beat Argentina in the five matches played between the two nations. The last time these sides met, Messi assisted Angel Di Maria to score the only goal that knocked Switzerland out of the 2014 World Cup.
Current form
Argentina – WWWWW
Switzerland – WWWWD
Argentina vs Switzerland previous games
- Argentina 1-0 Switzerland (July 1, 2014)
- Switzerland 1-3 Argentina (February 29, 2012)
- Switzerland 1-1 Argentina (June 2, 2007)
- Switzerland 1-1 Argentina (May 8, 1990)
- Argentina 2-0 Switzerland (June 19, 1966)
Argentina vs Switzerland prediction
Despite Argentina winning all of their last 12 games, they have shown their weaknesses in defense by letting in five goals in their last five games.
Against a Swiss team who have already scored nine goals in the tournament so far, this could make for a potentially explosive affair. With a place in the semis on the line, both teams will throw all their attacking options into the fray here and we can expect goals from both sides.
Prediction – Both teams to score – CLICK HERE TO PLACE YOUR BET ON THIS GAME!