How And Where To Watch: Qatar vs Switzerland in Group B of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Qatar begins a new World Cup journey under Julen Lopetegui, but standing in its way is a Switzerland side accustomed to competing among the international elite. Group B gets underway with a clash that could shape the trajectory of both teams.

🏟️ When and Where

Qatar and Switzerland will face off on June 13 at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium (Levi's Stadium) in Santa Clara, California, in a match corresponding to the opening round of Group B at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 PM local time.

📺 How and Where to Watch Qatar vs Switzerland

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🇶🇦 Qatar's Preview

Qatar begins its second-ever World Cup campaign looking to move past the disappointment of 2022, when it was eliminated in the group stage without earning a single point. Now under the guidance of Julen Lopetegui, the team hopes to prove it can compete with more established footballing nations.

The Qataris will rely on the talent of Akram Afif and Almoez Ali, two of the most influential players in the country's recent football history. Their goal is to open the tournament with a statement result in what appears to be a highly competitive group.

🇨🇭 Switzerland's Preview

Switzerland arrives as one of Europe's most consistent national teams. Murat Yakin's side will be making its sixth consecutive World Cup appearance and will look to extend a streak that has seen the Swiss reach the knockout stage in each of the last three editions.

Led by experienced players such as Granit Xhaka, Manuel Akanji, and Breel Embolo, the Europeans enter the tournament as favorites thanks to their international experience and the consistency they have shown in recent years.

⭐ Players to Watch

🇶🇦 Qatar - Akram Afif

The Qatari forward is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in Asian football. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one, create space, and deliver in key moments makes him Qatar’s primary attacking threat.

Afif will be crucial to Qatar’s hopes in this match. If he can find pockets of space and link up effectively with Almoez Ali, the hosts of the 2022 World Cup could pose problems for a Swiss defense that rarely gives opponents many opportunities.

🇨🇭 Switzerland - Granit Xhaka

The Swiss midfielder remains the heartbeat of his national team. His leadership, experience, and ability to dictate the tempo of matches make him the most influential figure in Murat Yakin’s system.

Beyond providing defensive stability, Xhaka possesses the vision and passing range needed to launch attacks for players such as Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye. In a tightly contested match, his tactical awareness could prove decisive.

🎯 Final Analysis

Switzerland enters the match as the favorite thanks to its experience, squad depth, and recent track record. However, Qatar arrives motivated to secure a historic World Cup victory and showcase the progress it has made in recent years.

If the Asian side can capitalize on its attacking transitions while remaining organized defensively, it could make life difficult for a Swiss team that will be looking to assert its quality and experience from the opening whistle.