World Cup 2026: Qatar Takes on Switzerland to Kick Off Group B

Switzerland arrives with the continuity of a squad established at the highest international level. Coached by Murat Yakin, the team is playing its sixth consecutive World Cup after finishing top of its European qualifying group, with four wins and two draws, scoring fourteen goals and conceding two.

Qatar, led by Julen Lopetegui, returns to the global stage four years after hosting the 2022 tournament, where they bowed out in the group stage. Their qualification came through the Asian fourth round, secured by a win against the United Arab Emirates and a draw with Oman.

The duel pits a structured Swiss side built around seasoned veterans against a Qatari squad seeking to take a step forward in a more demanding global context. Granit Xhaka and Ricardo Rodríguez bring significant international experience to the Nati, while Qatar relies heavily on Akram Afif, a starter in their offensive line.

The two teams have little recent history against each other. Their last recorded meeting dates back to November 2018, a friendly won 1-0 by Qatar in Switzerland.

Qatar Focus

Julen Lopetegui sets up Qatar in a 4-3-3 with Mahmud Abunad in goal. The defense features Ayoub Al Oui, Pedro Miguel, Boualem Khoukhi, and Homam Al-Amin, ahead of a midfield trio consisting of Jassem Gaber Abdulsallam, Assim Madibo, and Issa Laye.

The Qatari attacking trio includes Edmilson Junior, Yusuf Abdurisag, and Akram Afif. This formation places Afif at the center of creativity and transitions, while Almoez Ali, Hassan Al Haydos, Mohammed Muntari, and Ahmed Alaaeldin start on the bench.

Qatar enters this match aiming to perform better than in 2022, where they did not progress beyond the first round. Against a Switzerland side more accustomed to major tournaments, midfield management and defensive resilience will be crucial factors.

Switzerland Focus

Murat Yakin chooses a 3-4-2-1 with Gregor Kobel in goal. The back three includes Denis Zakaria, Manuel Akanji, and Nico Elvedi, with Michel Aebischer, Remo Freuler, Granit Xhaka, and Ricardo Rodríguez in midfield.

Up front, Dan Ndoye and Rubén Vargas support Breel Embolo, who starts as the lone striker. On the bench, Switzerland counts on Yvon Mvogo, Djibril Sow, Fabian Rieder, Ardon Jashari, Zeki Amdouni, Noah Okafor, and Cédric Itten.

The Nati progresses with a proven collective foundation under Yakin, who also managed the team at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024. Their opener against Qatar is an opportunity to confirm their status in this group without allowing early pressure to build in the group stage.