Switzerland open World Cup against Qatar as Yakin keeps formation undecided

World Cup opener today

Switzerland kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against Qatar on Saturday in Group B (1) (3) (4) (5) (6). This is the first match of the tournament for Murat Yakin's side, and after a disjointed warm-up defeat to Australia, the pressure is on to start with a statement. The match is available to stream live.

Yakin keeps formation call open

Granit Xhaka and Murat Yakin faced the media on Friday, the day before the opener, but Yakin left the biggest question unanswered: the formation (2). Switzerland's tactical setup remains undecided heading into matchday, which adds an extra layer of uncertainty to a camp already dealing with an unsettled atmosphere.

Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina draw 1–1

The other Group B match ended all square on Friday, with Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina playing out a 1–1 draw (7). That result means Switzerland can take early control of the group with a win against Qatar.