🔥 Qatar vs Switzerland kicks off
The 2026 World Cup is finally here, and Qatar is looking to make a statement in their first match against a tough Swiss team. As the first 48-team tournament, every game counts, and both teams will be fighting for a strong start in Group B. With the world watching, these two teams will give it their all in the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.
Qatar
🏆Hosts of 2022 World Cup nearby
📈Currently ranked 50th in FIFA
🏃Led by Spanish coach
📊Never won a World Cup
Akram Afif
forward · Al Sadd
Star player from Qatar
Hassan Al-Haydos
forward · Al Sadd
Team captain
Boualem Khoukhi
defender · Al Sadd
Veteran defender
Meshaal Barsham
goalkeeper · Al Sadd
Young goalkeeper
Switzerland
📈Currently ranked 15th in FIFA
🏆Reached quarterfinals in 2022
📊Have played in 12 World Cups
👥Coached by Murat Yakin
Granit Xhaka
midfielder · Arsenal
Team captain
Xherdan Shaqiri
midfielder · Chicago Fire
Veteran midfielder
Breel Embolo
forward · Monaco
Star forward
Yann Sommer
goalkeeper · Inter Milan
Experienced goalkeeper
Tale of the tape
🎙️ Unlikely hosts
Qatar is the first Middle Eastern country to host a World Cup, and they're looking to make a strong impression in their first match against Switzerland.