Argentina vs Switzerland - Top five players to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-final clash ft. Lionel Messi & Granit Xhaka

Argentina last faced Switzerland during the FIFA World Cup 2014.

After the successful conclusion of the Round of 16, the FIFA World Cup 2026 found its top eight teams. Winners of this round will move to the semi-finals. One of the headline fixtures of the stage will be an encounter between the defending champions, Argentina, and Switzerland.

Argentina shocked the entire world when they completed an incredible comeback against Egypt in the Round of 16. La Albiceleste were down 2-0 until the 79th minute but managed to win the game 3-2. Despite struggling against Egypt and against Cape Verde, Argentina have looked like a collective team motivated to retain its title.

However, after such intense games back-to-back, they are expected not to be at their best going forward.

Switzerland, on the other hand, have looked very impressive in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far. They accumulated seven points and emerged as the table toppers of Group B. Switzerland convincingly defeated Algeria in the Round of 32.

Then they eliminated an impressive Colombia side on penalties in the Round of 16. They have been very solid defensively. They have only conceded three goals in the entire tournament so far.

The game between these two teams is expected to be a thrilling encounter.

Take a look at some key players from both sides who are expected to step up in this clash.

5. Cristian Romero (Argentina)

Despite him suffering a serious injury with Tottenham Hotspur during the tail-end of the season, Cristian Romero has performed at an incredible level in the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far. He is Argentina’s leader in defence. He is one of their most important players.

He has been at the centre of Argentina’s success under Lionel Scaloni. He has been an effective offensive option. He has already scored two crucial goals against Cape Verde and Egypt.

4. Breel Embolo (Switzerland)

Breel Embolo remains Switzerland’s main reference point in attack. The striker’s physical presence and hold-up play are central to Switzerland’s transition game. Meanwhile, his movement creates space for runners from midfield and wide areas.

He has also contributed significantly as a creator during the tournament. His explosiveness will cause a lot of problems for Argentina’s backline, which has looked vulnerable during the knockout games.

3. Enzo Fernández (Argentina)

Enzo Fernández was crowned the best young player of the tournament during the 2022 edition of the competition. He is now arriving at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as one of the best players in the world. He is versatile and can play all across the midfield.

His ability to make late runs into the opposition box and play accurate long balls from the deep will be crucial to unlock the opponent’s defence. He scored the game-winning goal against Egypt in extra time. He will be high on confidence coming into this game.

2. Granit Xhaka (Switzerland)

Granit Xhaka remains the focal point of Switzerland’s midfield. The Swiss captain dictates the tempo of matches from deep positions. He is responsible for progressing possession through the midfield.

His passing range and positional discipline continue to make him one of Europe’s most influential central midfielders. Switzerland will rely on his experience and quality to neutralise Argentina in central channels.

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Topping our list is the current top goalscorer of the FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi. La Pulga has a very strong case as the greatest football player of all time. He showcased his brilliance on the world stage yet again throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far.

He became the oldest player to score a hat-trick at the World Cup. He also inspired his country to complete the comeback against Egypt by providing an assist and scoring a goal. He is currently the all-time leading goal scorer of the competition with 21 goals.

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