Qatar vs Switzerland: Match Preview

Qatar had to take the long road to secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After topping their second-round qualifying group with 16 points from six matches, they faced a far tougher challenge in the next phase, collecting 13 points from 10 games to finish fourth. Their World Cup ticket was eventually secured in the fourth qualifying round thanks to a victory over the United Arab Emirates and a draw against Oman. Unlike in 2022, when they qualified automatically as hosts, Qatar have earned their place this time through results on the pitch. However, with a demanding group ahead, reaching the knockout rounds will be a major challenge.

Switzerland, meanwhile, booked their place at the tournament by finishing top of their qualifying group, ending three points ahead of their nearest rivals. The Swiss once again arrive at the World Cup with realistic ambitions of advancing to the knockout rounds after reaching the last 16 in the previous edition. Drawn alongside Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Qatar, Switzerland will believe they have a strong opportunity to finish inside the top two. Their World Cup preparations included four friendly matches, producing one victory, two draws, and one defeat.

Match facts and head-to-head

Qatar are without a win in their last six matches, registering four defeats and two draws.

Qatar have failed to find the net in three straight games.

Switzerland have managed just one victory from their previous five matches.

Qatar won the last meeting between these teams 1-0.

Probable line-ups

Qatar: Abunada; Al-Oui, Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, Ahmed; Laye, Fathi, Gaber; Abdurisag, Afif, Edmilson

Switzerland: Kobel; Widmer, Akanji, Elvedi, Rodriguez; Xhaka, Freuler; Vargas, Rieder, Ndoye; Amdouni

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