Argentina prepares for quarter-final clash
Argentina is set to face Switzerland in a World Cup quarter-final match today in Kansas City. The defending champions, led by Lionel Messi, are looking to advance further in the tournament. The winner of this match will proceed to play England in the semi-finals, following England’s 2-1 victory over Norway.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9 p.m. ET. Fans have shown significant support for Argentina, with reports indicating a strong presence of their jerseys outside Arrowhead Stadium. Traffic management has been adjusted due to the high anticipated attendance, and media presence is notably higher for this match compared to a previous round of 32 game between Colombia and Ghana.
Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has opted for an unchanged lineup for this quarter-final. This decision follows a dramatic win against Egypt. The team’s starting eleven includes E. Martinez, Tagliafico, L. Martinez, Romero, Molina, Paredes, De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Alvarez, and Messi.
Switzerland’s approach and team news
Switzerland has made one change to their squad, with Djibril Sow coming in for Ardon Jashari. This change was also implemented by coach Murat Yakin during the half-time of their last-16 tie against Colombia. Switzerland’s lineup features Kobel, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez, Zakaria, Freuler, Xhaka, Sow, Rieder, Embolo, and Ndoye.
Switzerland’s journey to the quarter-finals included a 2-0 victory over Algeria in the round of 32 and a goalless draw with Colombia, which they won in a penalty shootout. Despite not being the favorites, Switzerland has demonstrated defensive solidity throughout the tournament, conceding only three shots on target in 120 minutes against Colombia.
The team’s tactical approach is expected to involve maintaining a solid defensive shape and looking for opportunities to score on the break. Players like Ndoye, Embolo, and Ruben Vargas are noted for their pace and direct running, which could pose a threat to Argentina’s defense.
Match dynamics and officiating
The match is anticipated to be demanding for Argentina, who have been described as defensively vulnerable and reliant on Messi’s contributions. Their tactical approach often funnels possession through the center, a strategy that Egypt largely nullified in their previous encounter. Switzerland, being a strong defensive side, may aim to make the game compact and difficult for Argentina’s attacking play.
Argentina’s reliance on Messi’s individual brilliance has been a consistent theme, and for a smoother ride, his supporting cast will need to contribute more. The team has also shown vulnerability on counter-attacks, which Switzerland’s quick players could exploit. Switzerland, however, has yet to score from a set-piece in the quarter-finals, an area they might look to improve.
The referee for today’s match will be Portuguese official Joao Pinheiro. This will be his third match at this World Cup and his second involving Switzerland. Pinheiro previously issued a straight red card to Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic in a group-stage match against Switzerland. He also officiated the UEFA Super Cup final between Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain last year.
England awaits the winner of this quarter-final, with their semi-final match scheduled for Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET in Atlanta.
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Source: nytimes.com
