Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Argentina vs Switzerland tactical plan discussions will shape the build-up to their World Cup quarterfinal in Kansas City, where Lionel Scaloni’s team must correct the defensive flaws exposed against Cape Verde and Egypt. Argentina have the quality to control possession, but Switzerland’s compact shape, direct counters and set-piece threat make this a demanding test.
Argentina beat Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time before recovering from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2. They had 57 per cent possession, 19 shots and 558 completed passes against Egypt, yet conceded twice from only five attempts.
Kylian Mbappé’s leadership before France’s semifinal showed the value of calm in knockout football. Argentina will need the same control if Switzerland frustrate them.
How Switzerland Will Play
Murat Yakin’s team are comfortable without the ball. Switzerland defend narrow areas, keep short distances between the lines and then break through Granit Xhaka’s passing or Breel Embolo’s ability to hold direct balls.
Their 2-0 win over Algeria showed that approach. Switzerland had 40 per cent possession, recorded five shots on target, scored through Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye, and forced 56 turnovers.
They then held Colombia scoreless for 120 minutes before winning the penalty shootout 4-3. Gregor Kobel was secure in goal, while Manuel Akanji protected the penalty area.
Switzerland can start in a 4-2-3-1 before dropping into a narrow block or back five. Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler screen the centre while the runners support Breel Embolo.
Argentina cannot settle for slow passing. Sideways possession would allow Switzerland to reset and keep Lionel Messi away from central positions.
Argentina’s Best Formation
Lionel Scaloni should use a 4-3-3 that becomes a 3-2-5 in possession. The suggested lineup is Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández; Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez and Nicolás González.
Nicolás Tagliafico should stay deeper when Nahuel Molina advances. This leaves a temporary back three, with Leandro Paredes positioned ahead to stop Swiss counterattacks.
Lionel Messi should begin on the right before moving inside behind Granit Xhaka. Rodrigo De Paul can overlap, forcing Switzerland to track the run or leave Argentina’s captain free between the lines.
Nicolás González must hold the width on the opposite side. That movement can stretch the defence and open an inside lane for Enzo Fernández, whose late run produced Argentina’s winner against Egypt.
Increase the Passing Speed
Argentina do not need more possession. They need earlier forward passes before Switzerland settle into shape.
Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernández should play through the first open line instead of taking extra touches. Quick combinations on the right can draw defenders across before a fast switch toward Nicolás González.
Julián Álvarez should attack the channels rather than remain between the centre-backs. Runs outside Manuel Akanji or toward Ricardo Rodríguez can create room for Lionel Messi to shoot or combine centrally.
Control Switzerland’s Counters
Argentina’s spacing behind attacks must improve. When five players move forward, three defenders and two midfielders should remain connected behind the ball.
Cristian Romero should challenge Breel Embolo, while Lisandro Martínez covers behind him. If both centre-backs attack the same duel, Switzerland can win the second ball and release their runners.
Argentina must also avoid cheap fouls around the penalty area. Switzerland have height and strong crossers, so set pieces could change the match quickly.
Use the Bench at the Right Time
The opening 20 minutes should be purposeful. Argentina can press Nico Elvedi and Ricardo Rodríguez when the ball moves wide, but both full-backs should not advance together.
If the match remains level after an hour, Thiago Almada can add direct dribbling between the lines. Lautaro Martínez offers another penalty-area target, while Alexis Mac Allister can help Argentina regain midfield control.
Argentina should advance if attacking freedom is matched by protection behind the ball. They must pass forward faster and deny Switzerland the transitions they want.
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