Switzerland and Algeria face off in World Cup round of 32 in Vancouver
Switzerland, unbeaten in Group B, takes on an Algeria side that scraped through with a dramatic draw against Austria. The winner advances to the last 16 of the first 48-team World Cup.
Build-up
Live coverage is underway as Switzerland and Algeria prepare to meet in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match, held at a venue in Vancouver, Canada, kicks off at 5:00 a.m. Central European Time (3:00 a.m. GMT). Both teams arrive via contrasting group-stage journeys, with Switzerland carrying the weight of expectation and Algeria riding the momentum of a late escape.
Switzerland's path
Switzerland progressed as Group B winners, remaining unbeaten throughout the opening phase. Their solid organisation and consistency have made them favourites for this knockout tie. The Swiss are aiming to build on that platform and secure a place in the last 16.
Algeria's dramatic escape
Algeria's route to this stage was far more turbulent. In their final group match against Austria, they needed at least a draw to stay in the tournament. The game ended 3-3, featuring two goals in added time and a flurry of second-half incidents. That result allowed Algeria to advance as one of the best third-placed teams, keeping alive their ambition of matching the nation's best-ever World Cup performance.
What is at stake
The winner of this single-elimination tie will move into the round of 16. For Algeria, the match represents a chance to continue a historic run in the first World Cup expanded to 48 teams and staged across three host nations. Switzerland, meanwhile, will look to justify their group-stage dominance and extend their unbeaten record.
Tournament context
The 2026 edition is the first to feature 48 teams and is being co-hosted by three North American countries. Vancouver is one of the Canadian venues hosting knockout-stage matches. The tournament runs until the final on 19 July.
