Argentina vs Switzerland: Lionel Scaloni Set to Keep Winning XI for World Cup Quarter-final
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is likely to name an unchanged starting XI for the World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland. However, competition remains for places at right-back and in attack.
July 11, 2026: Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has built a reputation for constantly rotating his squad, believing that change is an important part of keeping the team competitive. His record reflects that philosophy. Across 101 matches in charge of Argentina, Scaloni has fielded the same starting XI in consecutive games only three times.
As Argentina prepare for their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland, however, that trend could be about to change.
The team did not hold an open training session ahead of the crucial knockout clash. However, reports from Argentine media suggest that Scaloni is leaning towards naming the same starting XI that featured in the previous match.
According to Argentine outlet El Grafico, there are currently no major indications of changes to the lineup. If the report proves accurate, it would be only the fourth time during Scaloni's tenure that Argentina have started two successive matches with an unchanged XI.
Only a Few Selection Dilemmas Remain for Scaloni
Another leading Argentine publication, TyC Sports, reported that Thursday's training session was held behind closed doors, making it difficult to determine Scaloni's final plans.
The report added that while the final lineup has not yet been confirmed, the team that defeated Egypt in the Round of 16 is expected to remain largely unchanged. Scaloni was pleased with Argentina's overall performance in that match, reducing the likelihood of significant alterations ahead of the quarter-final. Nevertheless, a few selection decisions remain under consideration.
The biggest question is at right-back, where Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel are competing for a place in the starting XI. Another key decision concerns the attack, with Julián Alvarez and Lautaro Martínez both in contention for the centre-forward role.
There is also some room for adjustment in midfield, although no major overhaul is expected.
Montiel and Martínez Push for Starting Spots
Molina and Alvarez were not at their best during Argentina's Round of 16 victory over Egypt, opening the door for possible changes.
Both Montiel and Martínez made a strong impact after coming off the bench, strengthening their case for inclusion in the starting lineup. Martínez, in particular, played a crucial role by contributing to Argentina's final two goals against Egypt, further increasing competition for places.
Argentina are scheduled to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals the day after tomorrow, according to Bangladesh time. Scaloni is expected to finalise his starting XI after the team's final training session.
While a couple of positions remain undecided, all indications suggest that the Argentina coach will stick with the core of the side that secured victory in the previous round, making only minor adjustments if necessary.
