World Cup 2026: Switzerland vs Algeria â?? Preview and where to watch

Algeria will attempt to make history on Thursday night when they face Switzerland in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Vancouver.

The Desert Foxes are aiming to secure their first victory in a World Cup knockout match and continue Africa’s push for success on the global stage, while Switzerland are hoping to end a long wait of their own by progressing from a World Cup knockout tie for the first time in decades.

The winners will remain in Vancouver for a Round of 16 clash against either Colombia or Ghana on 7 July.

Algeria arrive after dramatic group-stage journey

Algeria’s route to the knockout rounds was filled with tension and drama.

The North Africans qualified after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Austria in their final Group J match, a game that included a stoppage-time equaliser which denied them second place in the group.

Despite speculation surrounding the result, FIFA chose not to open an investigation, allowing Algeria to focus entirely on the knockout stages.

The Desert Foxes are now preparing for only their second appearance in a World Cup knockout round after previously reaching the last 16 in 2014, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Germany.

Captain Riyad Mahrez is expected to lead the team once again as Algeria seek to deliver one of the country’s greatest football achievements.

Switzerland hoping to end long knockout drought

Switzerland enter the encounter unbeaten after finishing top of Group B with two wins and one draw.

Victories over Bosnia and Canada helped the Swiss secure first place and continue a strong run of form that has seen them lose only once since the beginning of 2025.

However, history remains a major challenge for the European side.

Switzerland have failed to progress from each of their last seven World Cup knockout matches and have not won a knockout tie in the competition since 1938.

One player attracting significant attention is youngster Johan Manzambi, who has emerged as one of the tournament’s breakout stars after scoring three goals and providing one assist in his opening three appearances.

Familiar face adds extra intrigue

The match also carries extra significance for Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic, who previously managed Switzerland for seven years and led them at multiple major tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup.

Thursday’s encounter will mark the first competitive meeting between the two nations, although Switzerland won both previous friendly matches played during the 1980s.

The Swiss also hold a strong record against African opponents at the World Cup, having won both of their previous meetings.

Match details and where to watch

The match will take place at BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 local time in Vancouver, 05:00 in Bern, 04:00 in Algiers and 03:00 GMT in Ghana.

Supporters can watch the game on Fox Sports 1, while streaming coverage will be available on Fubo and Telemundo.

 

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