Argentina vs. Switzerland projected lineups, starting 11 for World Cup 2026 quarterfinal game in Kansas City

Lionel Messi and Argentina continue their quest to defend their FIFA World Cup title as they take on Switerland, their second European opponent of the 2026 tournament, in Kansas City on Saturday evening.

The Albiceleste have not been beaten in the knockout stage of a World Cup since their 4-3 defeat to France in the 2018 Round of 16.

Messi has carried this team once again, currently leading the World Cup Golden Boot race as he's level with Kylian Mbappe on eight goals. It feels unlikely but not inconceivable that someone could break Just Fontaine's single-tournament record of 13 goals.

Switzerland managed to get past Colombia in the Round of 16, winning on penalties after a drab 0-0 draw in which neither team created much of anything through the entire 120 minutes.

The Sporting News looks at the projected starting lineups and team news ahead of Saturday's showdown.

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Argentina projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): 23. E. Martinez (GK) — 26. Molina, 13. Romero, 6. Li. Martinez, 3. Tagliafico — 5. Paredes — 7. De Paul, 20. Mac Allister — 24. E. Fernandez — 10. Messi, 9. Alvarez.

• Injured: None
• Suspended: None
• On a yellow card: Montiel

Argentina have no fitness concerns to worry about, meaning Lionel Scaloni is likely to name an unchanged side from the 3-2 win over Egypt.

The head man could, however, consider some changes in midfield, as the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Leandro Paredes have been poor at times in possession and the team lacks width.

Additionally, Gonzalo Montiel could come into the back line at right-back if Scaloni wishes to bring Nahuel Molina to the bench, a position he has routinely made changes at.

Switzerland projected starting 11

(4-2-3-1, right to left): 1. Kobel (GK) — 6. Zakaria, 4. Elvedi, 5. Akanji, 13. R. Rodriguez — 8. Freuler, 10. Xhaka, 14. Jashari — 17. R. Vargas, 7. Embolo, 11. Ndoye.

• Injured: Manzambi (knee), Aebischer (muscle, doubt), Jaquez (muscle, doubt)
• Suspended: None
• On a yellow card: Xhaka, Zakaria, Muheim

Switzerland will again have to deal without creative star Johan Manzambi who missed the Colombia match with a knee injury and it showed.

Ruben Vargas has been a top performer at this tournament, but he came off the bench late against Colombia, so it will be interesting to see if Murat Yakin sticks with Fabian Rieder or goes back to Vargas after the creative dud last time out.

Normally a defensive midfielder by trade, Denis Zakaria has filled in at right-back effectively this tournament, locking down Luis Diaz last time out in an impressive showing.

Argentina vs. Switzerland predictions, betting odds

It will be extremely difficult for Switzerland in the absence of Johan Manzambi in this match.

Argentina have not been at their best in midfield this tournament, against significantly inferior opposition, but they will be prepared to keep Granit Xhaka off the ball as much as possible. Physicality shouldn't be too much of a problem for Argentina in this match, as long as their center-backs can deal with Breel Embolo effectively.

The Albiceleste should manage to strangle the life out of this game as they are known to do, and advance to the semifinals. Anything less would be extremely disappointing.

• Score prediction: Argentina 2-0 Switzerland

Argentina vs. Switzerland World Cup rosters

Here are the names on Argentina and Switzerland's World Cup rosters. All caps and stats are correct as of the date of their announcement in May 2026.

MORE: A complete breakdown of Norway's 2026 World Cup squad

Argentina World Cup roster

MORE: A complete breakdown of Argentina's 2026 World Cup squad

Head coach: Lionel Scaloni

Switzerland World Cup squad

MORE: A complete breakdown of England's 2026 World Cup squad

Head coach: Murat Yakin

Where to watch Argentina vs. Switzerland

In USA:

• TV channel: FOX
• Live stream: fubo, Fox One, Fox Sports app/website

This match will be broadcast nationally on Fox in the United States with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.

The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Here is how to watch the match in some of the other major territories: