ARGENTINA VS SWITZERLAND | sUN, jULY 12, AT 6:30 aM
Kansas City, July 10: Defending champions Argentina will look to continue their quest for back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles when they face a resilient Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday, with a place in the last four at stake.
Lionel Scaloni’s side have endured a testing route to the quarter-finals but have once again demonstrated the resilience that has defined their recent success. After overcoming a determined Cape Verde in the Round of 16, Argentina produced a dramatic comeback against Egypt in the last eight, recovering from a two-goal deficit in the closing stages to secure a memorable 3-2 victory.Cristian Romero sparked the fightback before Lionel Messi, who earlier missed a penalty, redeemed himself with the equaliser.
Enzo Fernandez then completed the turnaround as Argentina extended their winning streak to 12 matches, moving within three victories of successfully defending their World Cup crown.Despite signs of an ageing squad, Argentina have continued to combine experience with quality, remaining unbeaten in their last 11 World Cup matches since their opening defeat to Saudi Arabia at the 2022 tournament. They have also scored at least twice in each of those games, underlining their attacking consistency.History also favours the South Americans heading into the contest. Argentina have won both previous World Cup meetings against Switzerland and remain unbeaten in seven matches against the European nation across all competitions.However, Switzerland have quietly emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament. Coached by Murat Yakin, the Swiss topped their group after victories over Bosnia and Herzegovina and co-hosts Canada before eliminating Algeria and edging past Colombia in a dramatic penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel proved the hero against Colombia with a series of crucial saves, highlighting Switzerland’s defensive strength. (AP)
