Qatar faces Switzerland in World Cup group match at Santa Clara

Qatar and Switzerland will meet at 22:00 in Santa Clara for the opening fixture of Group 2 in the FIFA World Cup. The match is billed as a clash between the tournament’s favorite host, Switzerland, which is making its sixth consecutive appearance and aims to reach the knockout stage, and Qatar, appearing for the second time after a 1‑0 win over Switzerland in their 2018 encounter.

Switzerland’s squad features veteran midfielders such as Granit Xhaka and a line‑up that includes goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Qatar is coached by Julián Lopetegui, formerly of Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, and will look to secure its first point with a starting eleven that includes striker Al‑Moajin Al‑Ali. The game will be refereed by Argentine official Facundo Tello.