Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka expected to start against Argentina in World Cup quarterfinal

By Arjun Nair / 12.07.2026

By Arjun Nair — 12 July 2026 — 3 min read

Key Player Availability for Quarterfinal Clash

Switzerland is set to face a significant challenge in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals as they prepare to take on defending champions Argentina on July 11. A key question for many fans has revolved around the availability of Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka. Latest pre-match reports indicate that Xhaka is expected to be available and will likely lead his team in this crucial encounter. His presence is seen as vital for Switzerland as they aim to achieve a major upset in the tournament.

While the official starting lineup will be confirmed closer to kickoff, there have been no reports suggesting that Xhaka is dealing with any injuries or suspensions that would prevent him from playing. The 33-year-old midfielder has been a central figure for Switzerland throughout the World Cup, consistently playing a key role. Pre-match analyses have consistently included him as one of Switzerland’s most important players, reinforcing expectations of his participation in the quarterfinal.

Xhaka’s leadership, passing ability, and extensive experience in high-stakes matches are considered crucial assets for his team. Against a formidable Argentina side, which boasts world-class talent, Switzerland will rely on Xhaka to manage possession, dictate the game’s pace when necessary, and help organise the midfield. His composure on the ball and his capacity to switch play effectively could be instrumental if Switzerland hopes to compete successfully against the reigning champions.

Xhaka’s Impact and Career Overview

Granit Xhaka has established a distinguished career in Swiss football. He made his international debut as a teenager and has since become Switzerland’s captain and one of its most-capped players. At the club level, he has played for several prominent European teams, including Borussia Mönchengladbach, Arsenal, and Bayer Leverkusen, where he has secured major domestic trophies.

This extensive experience at both club and international levels makes him one of Switzerland’s primary strengths heading into the World Cup quarterfinal. Although Switzerland enters the match as the underdog, Xhaka’s presence instills confidence within the squad. His ability to control play, win important duels, and motivate his teammates has been fundamental to Switzerland’s past successes. Should Switzerland achieve a memorable victory over Argentina and advance to the World Cup semifinals, their captain is anticipated to play a leading role in that effort.

Argentina’s Approach and Messi’s Role

On the opposing side, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed confidence in his captain, Lionel Messi, particularly regarding his penalty-taking duties. Despite Messi’s recent struggles from the spot in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he has missed both of his penalties in the tournament and scored only four of his last seven for Argentina since the 2022 World Cup, Scaloni remains steadfast in his support.

Scaloni believes that the Inter Miami attacker possesses the ability to perform under pressure in critical moments. He stated that Messi would continue to take penalties if he chooses to do so. The coach highlighted Messi’s intelligence, citing an instance against Egypt where Argentina made a comeback from a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2. In that match, Messi’s movement to the right wing was pivotal, leading to goals from Cristian Romero, Messi himself, and Enzo Fernandez.

Messi assisted Romero’s goal and then scored the equalizer, bringing his total for the campaign to eight goals and one assist. Scaloni noted that while Messi typically plays more centrally, the entire team adapts to his movements, which happens naturally during a game. He explained that the team recognized Messi was creating danger from the wing, finding passes to teammates on the opposite side.

Scaloni also emphasised that Messi’s actions on the pitch are now more decisive than before. He mentioned that Messi’s running statistics are consistent with his past performances, but the impact of his actions is significantly greater. The coach expressed his belief that as long as Messi desires to continue playing, he will remain the best, regardless of his age. Messi, who turned 39 last month, is having a strong run in what could be his final World Cup. Argentina, the defending champions, have maintained an unbeaten record in this tournament.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com