Qatar vs Switzerland: Match Preview

Switzerland enter this World Cup opener as the stronger side on paper and recent results back that up. They drew 1-1 with Australia on June 6 then hammered Jordan 4-1 five days earlier. Before that came a 0-0 against Norway and a narrow 3-4 loss to Germany. Qatar's only recent marker is a goalless draw with El Salvador in June. The single head-to-head from 2018 went Qatar's way 1-0 but that feels distant now.

Both sides line up in Group B with zero points and everything still to play for at Levi's Stadium. Qatar will rely heavily on Akram Afif to create chances in their 4-3-3 shape. Meshaal Barsham keeps goal behind Ayoub Al-Oui, Pedro Miguel, Boualem Khoukhi and Homam Al-Amin. Midfield options include Ahmed Fathi and Jassem Gaber while Edmilson Junior supports the attack alongside Afif and possibly Almoez Ali.

Switzerland's predicted 4-2-3-1 gives them balance. Gregor Kobel starts in goal. The back four features Silvan Widmer, Manuel Akanji, Nico Elvedi and Ricardo Rodriguez. Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler anchor midfield. Dan Ndoye, Ruben Vargas and Breel Embolo provide the forward threat. Xhaka's leadership and Embolo's finishing stand out as real assets here.

Qatar want their first away World Cup win but face a side that has looked consistent in friendlies. Switzerland should control the midfield and create better openings overall. Expect them to edge the match without it feeling like a stroll.

Form suggests Switzerland carry more momentum into the game. Qatar have shown defensive organisation in recent friendlies but lack the same attacking spark on current evidence. The 2018 result won't dictate events this time around.