World Cup 2026 / Switzerland vs Algeria: Who is ruled out for the round of 32?

02.07.26 FT World Cup

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On the eve of their round of 32 clash, Algeria and Switzerland approach this showdown each facing a medical question mark—one with a confirmed absence, the other with a last-minute doubt.

With just hours to go before kick-off in Vancouver, both medical staffs are working tirelessly to finalize their last adjustments. While Algeria already knows the identity of its key absentee, Switzerland is still managing a doubt that could persist right up to the whistle.

See also: Switzerland vs Algeria: TV channels, kick-off time and broadcast for the 2026 World Cup round of 32

Algeria, Mohamed Amine Amoura officially ruled out

After suffering a thigh strain before the match against Jordan, Mohamed Amine Amoura hasn't featured since. His absence continued during the dramatic draw with Austria (3-3), which secured qualification, and the Greens' top scorer in qualifying will also miss this round of 32 tie. However, his rehabilitation is progressing well: the Wolfsburg striker has resumed running on the sidelines of team sessions and is now training individually with medical staff.

A return to the squad is still possible if Algeria advance to the round of 16, where they would face the winner of Colombia vs Ghana. Aside from this, no other injuries or suspensions have been reported in Vladimir Petkovic's squad, who should otherwise have a full roster to choose from.

Switzerland, the Luca Jaquez doubt and health precautions

For the Swiss, the main question mark is over Luca Jaquez, who has been unable to train normally ahead of the game. Murat Yakin may have to do without his VfB Stuttgart defender for this knockout clash. Aside from this, there are no other reported injuries or suspensions for Switzerland.

However, precautions extend beyond muscular injuries. Haunted by the episode of Silvan Widmer, who missed the 2022 World Cup round of 16 due to illness, the Nati have implemented stricter health protocols this year, including requiring a medical form from families before any hotel contact with players. Even so, some staff members and Murat Yakin himself have experienced minor ailments since the start of the tournament, but none that threaten their presence for this round of 32 tie.

Two nearly full squads for this decisive clash

All in all, both teams head into this contest in relatively favorable conditions. Algeria will have to cope without their top scorer, but can rely on a squad otherwise spared by injury. Switzerland, meanwhile, may only suffer one potential absence at the back, which shouldn’t undermine the collective solidity that has historically been one of their great strengths in international competition.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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