Argentina will head into their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash against Switzerland with momentum on their side, but the reigning world champions have also shown signs of vulnerability during the knockout stage. Ahead of the blockbuster encounter, Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin expressed confidence that his side has what it takes to unsettle Lionel Messi and company, insisting the Swiss are capable of knocking out the defending champions.
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Murat Yakin backs Switzerland to trouble Lionel Messi and Argentina
Argentina booked their place in the last eight after navigating two demanding knockout fixtures. The Albiceleste required extra time to overcome Cape Verde before edging past Egypt in regulation time, with the physically taxing contests exposing moments of fatigue.
Speaking ahead of the quarter-final, Yakin suggested those performances have given Switzerland reasons to believe they can spring an upset against the tournament favorites.
"Judging by their last two matches, we could see that they are vulnerable. We are capable of stopping the world champions."
The Swiss coach also highlighted the significance of the occasion while expressing confidence in his squad's ability to compete against the defending champions.
"I think we have earned our opponents' respect. Tactically, it's going to be an interesting match. We are capable of rattling the world champions."
Midfielder Djibril Sow shared a similar outlook, acknowledging the challenge while insisting Switzerland believes it can overcome one of the favorites.
Switzerland reach first World Cup quarter-final since 1954
Switzerland secured their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in regulation and extra time.
Ruben Vargas converted the decisive spot-kick to send the Swiss into their first World Cup quarter-final since hosting the tournament in 1954. The winger has enjoyed an impressive campaign, scoring two goals before delivering the winning penalty in the Round of 16.
Despite missing injured midfielder Johan Manzambi, Switzerland produced a disciplined defensive display to frustrate Colombia and now face their toughest test yet against Lionel Messi-led Argentina, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.