Switzerland – Qatar 2026 World Cup: Favorite, Lineup, Broadcast

Switzerland with a Well-Gelled Squad

Qatar should nevertheless not be underestimated. The team is the reigning Asian champion and already put together a competitive squad at the 2022 home World Cup, even though the tournament ended disappointingly for the hosts with zero points. Against Switzerland, a significant improvement in performance is now needed if they do not want to squander all chances of advancing at an early stage.

On the other side stands Switzerland, which has developed into a consistent tournament team in recent years. Murat Yakin has been coach of the "Nati" for five years and has shaped a well-gelled squad. Many key players have been playing international matches together for years and have plenty of tournament experience. Granit Xhaka is considered the strategist in midfield, tasked with directing Switzerland's play. Murat Yakin summed up the expectations clearly: "Bloß die Gruppenphase zu überstehen wäre für uns zu wenig".

Switzerland qualified for the 2026 World Cup in convincing fashion, which further cements the favorite role. At the 2024 European Championship in Germany, the team at least reached the quarterfinals, where only England showed them their limits on penalties. This maturation process is set to bear fruit in the USA.

Historic Trauma Since 1954

Switzerland is haunted by a historic trauma. The national team has not reached a World Cup quarterfinal since 1954. Most recently, the country has been eliminated in the round of 16 three times in a row — a circumstance that should provide the team with additional motivation. Getting through the group stage is considered the minimum goal — anything beyond that would be a historic step.

The match kicks off on Sunday at 9:00 PM CEST. In Group B of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Qatar and Switzerland face off at 9 PM (live on ServusTV). In addition, sport.ORF.at will cover the match with a live ticker. Fans in Austria and Switzerland can therefore comfortably follow the encounter from their couch at home.

Broadcast and Conditions

For Lopetegui and his team, the match is an initial benchmark in the tournament. Another defeat would further fuel the discussion about the Spanish coach and Qatar's sporting direction. Switzerland, on the other hand, can lay the foundation for a group stage as free of worries as possible with a win and turn their attention early toward the knockout rounds.