🇨🇭 Switzerland

Yakin typically lines up in a 4-2-3-1, with Xhaka and Remo Freuler forming a disciplined double pivot that protects the back four and recycles possession efficiently. Akanji steps into midfield during build-up phases, giving Switzerland an extra passing option from deep. Wide midfielders Rubén Vargas and Dan Ndoye provide pace on transitions, while the team presses in organised mid-block rather than high-intensity pressing.

The engine of this Swiss side is Granit Xhaka, whose move to Sunderland after years at Arsenal has done nothing to diminish his authority as a ball-winning, tempo-setting captain. Manuel Akanji brings Champions League-level composure from Inter Milan's back line, reading danger before it materialises. Up front, Breel Embolo — the man who scored against his native Cameroon at Qatar 2022 — offers the physical directness and box presence Switzerland's attack is built around.

Akanji's ability to carry the ball out from defence gives Switzerland a clean first line of build-up that many sides cannot disrupt. Xhaka's positional discipline and passing range make Switzerland difficult to press effectively, and Freuler's tireless covering at Bologna has made him one of Europe's most reliable pivots.

Switzerland's attack can stall when Embolo is isolated — Amdouni and Itten are Bundesliga/Championship-level backups rather than genuine world-class alternatives. Set-piece delivery has also been an inconsistent source of goals, and the squad lacks a natural wide forward who can consistently beat defenders one-on-one at the highest level.