Switzerland coach takes dig at ‘vulnerable’ Argentina before World Cup quarterfinal

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin believes Argentina is showing cracks heading into Saturday’s World Cup quarterfinal matchup.

The Swiss are preparing for what is undoubtedly their toughest test of this World Cup so far against the reigning world champions.

“We’re playing against the world champion. There’s nothing better than having this opportunity. But it’s also been clear, over the last two matches, that Argentina is vulnerable,” Yakin said during a press conference Tuesday.

Switzerland coach Murat Yakin celebrates after the penalty shootout as Switzerland qualifies for the quarterfinals of the World Cup. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters

Argentina has looked beatable through the Round of 16, narrowly escaping elimination with 3-2 wins against Cape Verde and Egypt in the first two phases of the knockout rounds. 

Switzerland has also narrowly survived, earning a convincing 2-0 victory over Algeria in the round of 32, but then needing penalties against Colombia.

“I think we have earned our opponents’ respect. Tactically, it’s going to be an interesting match. We are capable of rattling the world champions,” Yakin added. “For a nation like Switzerland, playing a quarter-final against Argentina is a massive moment. So, expectations are huge. 

“I think I’ll still need a few hours, maybe even a day, to fully realize what is happening to us.”

In the Round of 16 win, Argentina benefited from a disallowed goal thanks to VAR and a goal that stood despite Egyptian players claiming a foul in the penalty box. 

Lionel Messi scores in the match between Argentina and Egypt, valid for the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Pedro Paulo Diaz/TheNews2/INSTARimages

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Switzerland is preparing for unfavorable calls, per ESPN’s Jose Ramon Fernandez, by holding intrasquad scrimmages with uneven numbers such as 11 vs. 10, 11 vs. 9 and even 11 vs. 8.

Swiss goalie Gregor Kobel is also reportedly working up to two hours a day on penalty shootout practice.