Ladbrokes previews Argentina vs Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals
Lionel Messi is tipped for three shots on target with Breel Embolo having at least one effort on goal
Argentina are backed to qualify for the semi-finals but both teams are set to score
After coming back from the brink of World Cup elimination to beat Egypt, Argentina face Switzerland in the quarter-finals - and Ladbrokes previews all the action.
The holders went 2-0 down to Egypt but three late goals ensured a thrilling 3-2 win, albeit in controversial circumstances, to reach the last eight, where a tough test against the Swiss awaits.
Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to progress from the Round of 16 after a goalless draw after 120 minutes, and they will likely have to raise their game if they are to pull off a shock against Lionel Messi and Co, who are 3/10 to qualify compared to 11/5 for the Swiss.
Lionel Messi to have three or more shots on target
Lionel Messi grabbed his eighth goal at the 2026 World Cup just when Argentina needed it against Egypt to make it 2-2 late on, with the superstar still so pivotal to his country's chances of defending their title.
The 39-year-old is averaging 3.4 shots on target per game at this tournament. Enzo Fernandez is the next highest among Argentina's regular starters with just 0.8 per game, illustrating just how much their attack still revolves around Messi.
Breel Embolo to have one or more shots on target
Switzerland struggled to break down a stubborn Colombia side in the Round of 16 but, despite Argentina being considered tougher opponents, they should have more opportunities to create chances, just as Egypt did in the previous round.
Breel Embolo has been directly involved in 13 goals across his last 17 international appearances and is averaging 0.8 shots on target per match at this World Cup. Our experts are backing their main striker to test Emiliano Martinez with an effort on goal.
Both teams to score
Both teams have scored in three out of five games for each of these two sides, with neither looking particularly solid defensively.
Argentina have found the net in every one of their games so far and it would be a surprise not to see them do the same here, but both Cape Verde and Egypt have provided the blueprint for Switzerland to threaten the Argentine backline. It looks like being another entertaining knockout tie here with both teams scoring.
Argentina to qualify for the semi-finals
Lastly, we are backing the world champions to get the job done once again and secure their place in the semi-finals.
Argentina have not been totally convincing at this World Cup, particularly in the knockout stages, but they have still found a way to win even when that looked in doubt. It's another tough encounter against the Swiss and it may even take extra-time to get the win, just as it did in 2014 when they last faced off at the World Cup in what was a 1-0 victory.
You can bet on each of these markets individually, or combine them to create an Argentina vs Switzerland Bet Builder. Plus, with Bet Builder+, you can combine your bet not only with other World Cup matches, but also with different sports.
Argentina vs Switzerland takes place on Sunday, July 12, with kick-off for the quarter-final match scheduled for 02:00 BST.
Where can I watch Argentina vs Switzerland at the World Cup?
The World Cup match, Argentina vs Switzerland, will be shown live on ITV1 and ITVX for UK viewers.
Can you bet on Argentina vs Switzerland?
Ladbrokes are offering customers the chance to bet on a number of Argentina vs Switzerland markets, including match result, both teams to score, and over/under total goals.
