Will Argentina's luck hold? Preview of the match against Switzerland, July 12
On Sunday, July 12, the legendary Arrowhead Stadium will host a clash between Argentina and Switzerland. This 2026 World Cup quarterfinal promises high drama: on one side, the reigning world champions led by the irrepressible Leo Messi; on the other, Switzerland’s Nati, making history by reaching this stage for the first time in 72 years. The winner will take a giant leap toward the final, awaiting the stronger side from the Norway vs. England semifinal.
Argentina’s path through the tournament has been a nerve-shredding rollercoaster for their fans, but their resilience has been nothing short of phenomenal. In the round of 32, the Albiceleste edged past Cape Verde only in extra time (3-2), while in the round of 16, they staged a wild thriller against Egypt—trailing 0-2 in the 78th minute, yet somehow scoring three late goals to snatch a 3-2 victory. Lionel Scaloni’s main weapon remains Lionel Messi, who, at 39, is enjoying a new lease on life and leads the Golden Boot race with 8 goals. Argentina’s attack is unstoppable, but glaring defensive lapses leave the coaching staff with headaches before every match.
Switzerland, under Murat Yakin, have already exceeded all expectations, rewriting their nation’s football history. In the round of 16, they confidently dispatched the tough tournament hosts, Canada (2-1), and then delivered a textbook defensive performance against Colombia, knocking out the South Americans on penalties after a grueling 0-0. Nati are renowned for their brilliant organization and rock-solid defense—coming into the quarterfinal with two consecutive clean sheets. Keeper Gregor Kobel is in sensational form, and Yakin’s tactical flexibility allows Switzerland to adapt and suffocate any opponent, shutting down their creative spark.
The tactical battle at Arrowhead will be a classic clash of styles. Argentina will look to dominate possession from the start, unleashing their attacking firepower in the final third, relying on Messi’s genius movements and Julián Álvarez’s runs. Switzerland will gladly accept the challenge, dropping deep into a low block and forcing Argentina to break down their disciplined wall, while seeking to strike back through Kwadwo Duah on the counter or from set pieces. The Swiss defense is far more disciplined than Egypt’s or Cape Verde’s, so the favorites are in for anything but a walk in the park.
Lineups
Argentina: E. Martinez – Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Tagliafico – De Paul, Paredes, Fernandez, Mac Allister – Messi, La. Martinez
Switzerland: Kobel – Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez – Jashari, Xhaka, Freuler – Ndoye, Embolo, Vargas
Prediction
Switzerland could pull off a shock if they play confidently at the back. My prediction: Asian handicap Switzerland (+1) at 1.6
