Qatar played in the previous World Cup as the host nation. Nevertheless, they have shown noticeable improvement, as evidenced by their recent successes in the Asian Cups. Last year, they finally made it through qualification—not from the main group, where they finished only fourth, but via an additional playoff against the UAE and Oman. However, they underperformed at the Arab Cup in winter, managing just one draw. At the end of May, after a long break, they lost to Ireland. Against El Salvador, they at least managed a goalless draw.
Switzerland advanced through another round of qualification without major issues. They topped a group with Kosovo, Slovenia, and Sweden, collecting fourteen points from six matches. However, in March friendlies, they lost to Germany and drew with Norway. In the new training camp, they started by thrashing Jordan 4-1. Later, they drew again, this time with a more experienced Australian side.
The Middle Eastern representative scores only 0.7 goals per match, conceding significantly more—1.5. In contrast, the Europeans posted very different numbers: 2.2 goals scored and 0.8 conceded per game.
Previous Matches: Qatar vs Switzerland
In 2018, a friendly match was held. Qatar unexpectedly won 1-0.
There are still some questions about Xhaka and company. However, they remain much stronger and are expected to win here with a “-1.5 goals” handicap (odds – 1.67).
Qatar vs Switzerland: Key Statistics and Trends
Qatar have lost four of their last six matches
50% of Qatar’s matches end with both teams scoring, with an average total of 2.2 goals per match
Switzerland have won two of their last seven games
50% of Switzerland’s matches end with both teams scoring, with an average total of 3.0 goals per match
Qatar vs Switzerland: Probable Starting Lineups
Qatar is expected to line up in a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): Abunada – Homam Ahmed, Khoukhi, Ro-Ro, Al-Uwi – Laaie, Fatahi, Gaber – Edmilson Junior, Akram Afif, Abdurizag
Switzerland is expected to play in a 1-4-4-2 formation (probable lineup): Kobel – Ricardo Rodriguez, Akanji, Elvedi, Widmer – Ndoye, Freuler, Granit Xhaka, Aebischer – Amdouni, Yoan Manzambi.
