Argentina made a smooth start to their bid to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.

But since they entered the knockout rounds, frailties have crept in as they were pushed to breaking point by first World Cup debutants Cape Verde and then Egypt.

Lionel Messi, who turned 39 during the group phase, has again been the talisman for the South Americans, his genius repeatedly getting his team out of tight spots.

But there is just a suggestion the Swiss, a well-organised unit marshalled by midfield general Granit Xhaka, could exploit any weariness and cause them problems at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said he is very proud of the character his team has shown.

"I would like this national team to be remembered as a team that never gave up," he said.

The 48-year-old has been especially marked by the support for the team expressed by a young fan.

"We do not play football just for a win," he said.

"And then when you see those things that come out of our heart, this is just outstanding.

"When you see a 10-year-old saying those things and talking with that passion, and everyone shouting 'Argentina', that is just so emotional. And that is the legacy that I want."

Messi will be bidding to add to the 21 goals —a new record — he has scored across the six World Cups in which he has played.

Xhaka, 33, for his part said his message to the Swiss fans was a simple one.

"Regarding the fans, keep dreaming. I am a person who always dreams, and dreams can come true," he said.

"Sometimes you need to do something new. You really need to push your limits if you want to beat Argentina. And I'm convinced my team is ready."

Stats before of the match:

Argentina and Switzerland have met twice before in 2 sperate world cups being 1966 and 2014 in where Argentina won both games.

Lionel Messi has missed the most penalties in FIFA World Cup history, failing to convert 4 of his 8 spot-kicks.

Messi has 9 World Cup assists throughout 6 World Cups and is the tournament's joint-top scorer with 8 goals, level with Kylian Mbappe.

Argentina have won the FIFA World Cup three times. If they lift the 2026 title, they will equal Germany and Italy with four World Cup crowns.

Argentina are unbeaten in their last 14 matches.

Argentina have scored 14 goals and conceded 5 during the tournament.

This is Switzerland's first World Cup quarter-final in 72 years. Their last appearance at this stage came in 1954, when they hosted the tournament.

Switzerland's top scorer, Johan Mazambi, will miss the quarter-final through injury.

Predicted XIs

Argentina: Emiliano Martínez, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo, Fernández, Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez.

Switzerland: Gregor Kobel, Denis Zakaria, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodríguez, Remo Freuler, Granit Xhaka, Dan Ndoye, Djibril Sow, Rubén Vargas, Breel Embolo.

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