Switzerland faces one of its biggest tests of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when it takes on Colombia in the Round of 16. The team coached by Murat Yakin enters the match unbeaten, with a disciplined campaign and the ambition of returning to the quarterfinals for the first time in decades.

The European side finished top of its group and confirmed its strong form with a 2-0 win over Algeria in the previous round, thanks to goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye. Now, against a Colombia team that also remains unbeaten and has shown major defensive strength, Switzerland will need its best version to reach the quarterfinals.

A Solid Defensive Base for Yakin

Switzerland's projected lineup is not expected to feature major surprises. Gregor Kobel is set to remain the starting goalkeeper, protected by a back line made up of Denis Zakaria, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, and Ricardo Rodríguez.

Akanji's presence will be essential to organize the defense and contain the speed of players such as Luis Díaz and Jhon Arias, two of Colombia's biggest attacking threats. Ricardo Rodríguez will also bring experience on the left flank in a match that will demand focus for the full 90 minutes.

Xhaka and Embolo Lead Switzerland's Plan

In midfield, Granit Xhaka is expected to once again be the team's main reference alongside Remo Freuler. Both players will be key to giving Switzerland balance, controlling the tempo, and disrupting the creative influence of James Rodríguez.

Further forward, Johan Manzambi, Dan Ndoye, and Rubén Vargas are expected to support Breel Embolo, who arrives with confidence after scoring against Algeria and remains the team's main attacking reference.

Switzerland's possible lineup features Gregor Kobel; Denis Zakaria, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodríguez; Remo Freuler, Granit Xhaka; Johan Manzambi, Dan Ndoye, Rubén Vargas; and Breel Embolo.

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