After Mexico launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with an impressive 2-0 victory over South Africa, attention now turns to Group B as Qatar and Switzerland prepare to face off in Santa Clara on Saturday.
The match marks the first competitive meeting between the two nations, who are joined by Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina in what is shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most competitive groups. For Qatar, this represents only their second appearance at a World Cup after hosting the competition in 2022, where they exited at the group stage.
The Official Qatar Stars League English X account has promoted the national team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Switzerland in two days. The Maroons secured qualification with a crucial 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates last October, but their preparations have been far from ideal.
Julen Lopetegui’s side arrive at the tournament without a win in their last six matches, including a 1-0 defeat to the Republic of Ireland and a 1-1 draw against El Salvador in their final warm-up fixture.
Despite their recent struggles, Qatar will draw confidence from their only previous meeting with Switzerland, a 1-0 friendly victory in 2018. An opening victory could significantly boost their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
Switzerland, however, arrive in strong form and with considerable World Cup pedigree. The Swiss are making their 13th appearance at football’s biggest tournament and have reached the round of 16 in each of the last three editions. Murat Yakin’s side strengthened their preparations with a convincing 4-1 victory over Jordan before drawing 1-1 with Australia in their final pre-tournament friendly.
Having lost only once in their last 14 matches across all competitions, Switzerland enter the contest as favourites and will be eager to begin their campaign with three points before facing Bosnia-Herzegovina and Canada.
Team News
For Qatar, Akram Afif is expected to spearhead the attack alongside Yusuf Abdurisag and Edmilson Junior. Mahmud Abunada could start in goal, while Pedro Miguel and Boualem Khoukhi are likely to marshal the defence.
Switzerland Murat Yakin has several attacking options available, with Zeki Amdouni expected to get the nod ahead of Breel Embolo. Experienced stars Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez, Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler are all set to feature.
Possible Lineups
Qatar possible starting lineup:
Abunada; Al-Oui, Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, Ahmed; Laye, Fathi, Gaber; Abdurisag, Afif, Edmilson
Switzerland possible starting lineup:
Kobel; Widmer, Akanji, Elvedi, Rodriguez; Xhaka, Freuler; Vargas, Rieder, Ndoye; Amdouni
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 20:00 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Qatar 1-2 Switzerland.
Switzerland possess greater experience, stronger recent form and a squad packed with players competing at the highest level in Europe. Qatar are capable of causing problems through the creativity and finishing ability of Akram Afif, but the Swiss midfield and defensive organisation should prove decisive over 90 minutes.
