Qatar XI vs Switzerland - Predicted lineup & team news for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
The 2022 host nation will participate in their second World Cup.
On Saturday, Qatar and Switzerland will kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in Santa Clara against each other.
The two teams, who will play each other for the first time in a competitive game, are in Group B of this summer’s competition alongside Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The Maroons qualified for this summer’s championship with a 2-1 victory over the UAE in October. They have since played six games without victory. It includes a 1-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland in a friendly at the end of May.
Group B appears to be extremely open, with Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina both there. A win in the opening match would put the 2022 host nation in a strong position to advance to the knockout round of a World Cup for the first time. This is especially possible since a good third-place finish might also guarantee qualification.
With their second participation in the competition, the Maroons are determined to leave an impression on the tournament this time.
Also read: Morocco XI vs Brazil – Predicted lineup & team news for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash
Qatar team news vs Switzerland
Akram Afif, Yusuf Abdurisag, and Edmilson Junior appear to be Qatar’s first-choice front three for the summer tournament; they are likely to lead the assault in this encounter.
Afif has 39 goals for his country and will be tasked with scoring for them in games. Edmilson has yet to score for the national squad but will be trusted to lead the attacking line in the event.
Mahmud Abunada could start in goal. Meanwhile, Pedro Miguel and Boualem Khoukhi are expected to play as centre-backs for Qatar in the 2026 World Cup.
Qatar predicted XI vs Switzerland
Qatar predicted lineup (4-3-3): Abunada; Al-Oui, Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, Ahmed; Laye, Fathi, Gaber; Abdurisag, Afif, Edmilson
How many times Qatar have qualified for World Cups?
Two, first in 2022 and now in 2026.
Which group are they in?
Group B.
Who else is in their group?
Switzerland, Canada and Bosnia.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.