Switzerland will continue their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they take on Jordan in an international friendly on Sunday in St Gallen, with both nations using the encounter to fine-tune their squads ahead of the global tournament.
The Swiss national team recently confirmed their official squad list for the 2026 World Cup and are preparing for a sixth consecutive appearance at football’s biggest competition. Meanwhile, Jordan arrive as one of four nations set to make their historic World Cup debut, continuing their remarkable rise on the international stage.
Switzerland have been drawn into Group B alongside co-hosts Canada, Qatar and Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Murat Yakin’s side will be confident of progressing into the knockout stages.
Since ending a 28-year absence from the World Cup in 1994, the Schweizer Nati have become one of Europe’s most consistent tournament participants. However, despite boasting one of the strongest generations in their history, Switzerland are still searching for a breakthrough run deep into the competition after repeatedly falling short in recent editions.
The Swiss topped their qualification group ahead of Kosovo, Slovenia and Sweden, winning four and drawing two of their six matches. Their impressive consistency has increased optimism among supporters that they can finally improve on their best World Cup finish since reaching the quarter-finals back in 1954.
Jordan, meanwhile, continue to embrace a historic moment in the country’s football history as they prepare for their first-ever World Cup appearance. The Jordan FA via their X channel recently shared photos from the Al-Nashama training camp in St. Gallen, featuring 28 players including key figures such as Yazan Al-Arab and Noor Al-Rawabdeh.
The session forms part of Jordan’s World Cup buildup ahead of friendlies against Switzerland and Colombia, while the nation also plans to establish a base camp in Portland, USA during the tournament.
After years of heartbreak and near misses, Jordan finally secured qualification and are now regarded as one of Asia’s fastest-rising football nations. Their impressive run to the AFC Asian Cup final helped transform perceptions around the team, with head coach Jamal Sellami building a disciplined and highly competitive side.
Jordan face a daunting challenge at the World Cup, particularly with a group-stage clash against reigning world champions Argentina looming, but confidence within the camp continues to grow. Morocco’s historic run at the 2022 World Cup has also provided inspiration for another Arab nation hoping to make global history.
Team News
Switzerland will once again rely heavily on Granit Xhaka, who remains the heartbeat of the midfield and the country’s most-capped player with 144 appearances.
Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye are expected to provide attacking threat, while Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji should lead the backline. Noah Okafor has also returned to the national setup after previously being excluded following criticism of manager Murat Yakin.
For Jordan, captain Musa Al-Taamari remains the standout figure after an impressive season with Stade Rennais, where he contributed seven goals and 11 assists.
Midfielder Nizar Al Rashdan and experienced defender Yazan Al-Arab are also expected to play key roles as Jordan continue preparations for their historic World Cup debut.
Possible Lineups
Switzerland possible starting lineup:
Mvogo; Akanji, Elvedi, Zakaria; Rieder, Freuler, Xhaka, Aebischer; Okafor, Embolo, Ndoye.
Jordan possible starting lineup:
Abulaila; Al Arab, Abualnadi, Nasib; Abu Taha, Al Rashdan, Al Rawabdeh, Jamous; Al-Mardi, Al Tamari, Sabra.
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport Football Plus |
| Live Stream | DStv Stream app |
| Kick-off Time | 14;00 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Switzerland 2-1 Jordan.
Switzerland’s experience and quality should give them the advantage, but Jordan’s organisation and confidence ahead of their first World Cup appearance could make this a competitive contest.
