World Cup 2026: Murat Yakin admits Vladimir Petkovicâ??s tactical surprise tested Switzerland

Murat Yakin says Switzerland’s 2-0 win over Algeria in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 was shaped by a key tactical adjustment after a difficult opening spell.

The Swiss coach praised Vladimir Petkovic’s bold approach and admitted Algeria’s setup initially disrupted his team’s structure.

Yakin explained that Switzerland struggled to find their rhythm in the first quarter of an hour. “It's true that our tactical structure didn't quite work for the first ten or fifteen minutes, until we made a slight repositioning in midfield after the goal. Algeria hadn't fielded a true center forward. They had more central or attacking midfielders, which made our pressing very difficult and forced us to run long distances,” he analysed.

He admitted his side were under pressure before breaking the deadlock. “We were under a bit of pressure, which isn't something we're used to, and we couldn't press effectively. But that also created space where we were able to break free from their markers on two or three occasions. The goal came at the right time. After that, I think we controlled the game for most of the match. It was a mature and cohesive performance against players with great individual qualities,” Yakin added.

Asked about his duel with former Switzerland boss Petkovic, he chose respect over mind games. “I prefer to keep my secrets to myself. I have the utmost respect for Vlado… When he fields such players… you have to be prepared to suffer. My team accepted it well,” he said, before noting that Petkovic’s decision to attack with multiple runners from deep “surprised” him and forced Switzerland to adjust their midfield shape.

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