Argentina are not unbeatable: Swiss coach Yakin eyes World Cup quarter-final upset

Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin has insisted his side will head into their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against defending champions Argentina with belief, saying the Albiceleste are a formidable team—but "not unbeatable."

Switzerland booked their place in the last eight after edging Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the final Round of 16 clash in Vancouver. Argentina, meanwhile, produced a stunning comeback from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2.

The two sides will meet in a blockbuster quarter-final at Kansas City Stadium on July 12 (7:00am Bangladesh time), with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

Addressing the media ahead of the clash, Yakin acknowledged Argentina's pedigree but said his team would not be intimidated.

"We're facing the reigning world champions, and it's a special opportunity for us. But we've seen that Argentina are not unbeatable. We've worked hard to reach this stage, and now it's time to show what we're capable of," he said.

The Swiss coach expects a tactical battle and believes his side has what it takes to challenge Lionel Scaloni's men.

"It will be a fascinating match. We want to compete with the champions on equal terms. Playing in a game like this is a fantastic experience for everyone in the team."

Fresh from Switzerland's dramatic victory over Colombia, Yakin also expressed confidence in his squad's potential to make a deep World Cup run.

"It feels like a dream. We have quality players, and they proved that again today. I have complete faith in their maturity and ability. This team can go a long way."

Veteran defender Ricardo Rodriguez also praised Argentina but backed Switzerland to embrace the challenge.

"Argentina are an outstanding team with top-quality players, an excellent coach, and the best player in the world. But we're ready for the challenge."

Switzerland will now look to pull off one of the tournament's biggest upsets as they attempt to end Argentina's title defence and book a historic place in the World Cup semi-finals.