For many, Argentina with Lionel Messi (39) is the clear favorite. Bastian Schweinsteiger (41) sees this VM“However, the quarter-final against Switzerland was different. Immediately after France’s 2-0 victory over Morocco at ARD, the 2014 world champion was looking forward to the next quarter-final and surprised with a bold prediction.
Schweinsteiger was particularly impressed with Switzerland’s performance against Colombia. Switzerland won the penalty shootout 4-3 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since the 1954 home World Cup. The duel will take place on the night from Saturday to Sunday at 3 am.
Read more on the topic
Schweinsteiger believes in Switzerland
Schweinsteiger said on ARD: “The way they played against the Colombians, with their automaticity, with their structure, they definitely have a good chance against Argentina, who have not played so confidently in the last two games because they have improved so much.”
And further: “Of course, Messi needs to be watched, but given the way Switzerland played against Colombia, I definitely have a lot of confidence in them in the game.”
Argentina had to give it their all in the round of 16. The defending champions trailed Egypt 2-0 until the 79th minute. Only the furious final phase became the turning point. Lionel Messi first set up Cristian Romero’s goal, soon after made it 2-2 himself and finally saw Enzo Fernandez score a stoppage-time header for a 3-2 win.
Matthew noticed: Observation after Mbappe’s penalty
07/10/2026
Messi warned
Despite their impressive success, Argentina enter the game as favourites. But Schweinsteiger believes the Swiss have found their best form at just the right time.
Murat Yakin’s team has so far impressed primarily with its stable defense and excellent nerves in close games. Those were the qualities that would be required against the reigning world champion, who struggled in both knockout games. In the 1/8 finals match against Cape Verde, Albiceleste managed to win only late, and even in extra time.
If Schweinsteiger is correct in his prediction, the departure of Messi and Argentina will be one of the biggest surprises of this World Cup.