Argentina Face Switzerland in 2026 World Cup Quarterfinal as Messi, 39, Chases Semifinal Spot
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jul 11
Argentina Face Switzerland in 2026 World Cup Quarterfinal as Messi, 39, Chases Semifinal Spot
3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Jul 11
Summary
Kansas City hosts Saturday’s quarterfinal with defending champions Argentina meeting Switzerland at 8pm local time, the winner advancing to face Norway or England in Wednesday’s semifinal in Atlanta.
57.1% is Argentina’s regulation-time win probability in Opta’s model, but Lionel Messi’s side arrive after extra-time against Cape Verde and a controversial 3-2 comeback over Egypt that exposed a shaky title defense.
39-year-old Messi has scored in all 5 Argentina matches and has 8 goals, level with Kylian Mbappe on total goals but behind on assists, even as he has acknowledged fatigue after heavy knockout minutes.
72 years after their last World Cup quarterfinal, Switzerland have built belief through an unbeaten group stage and knockout wins over Algeria and Colombia, though injuries have sidelined Johan Manzambi and Jaquez while Michel Aebischer is doubtful.
7 previous meetings favor Argentina with 5 wins and 2 draws, including World Cup victories in 1966 and 2014, giving Switzerland a chance to avenge their last tournament defeat by the South Americans.