Switzerland and Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has confirmed he has been placed on a two-year probation period following his admission regarding the acquisition of a fraudulent Covid-19 vaccination certificate. The veteran midfielder took to social media to address the legal resolution of a case that has recently overshadowed his international career.
The tournament might not kick-off for the best part of two years, but the extended international break offered some early clues as to how the challengers are shaping up
Switzerland are on the verge of securing promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League, but head coach Murat Yakin believes the job is far from finished. Following a perfect start to their campaign, the manager has turned his attention to the reintegration of two of his most vital senior figures.
Switzerland maintained their perfect Nations League record with a resilient 2-1 victory over Slovenia, overcoming an incredibly early setback in Lucerne. Nottingham Forest star Dan Ndoye proved to be the hero, netting the decisive goal to ensure his side made it three wins from three matches.
John McGinn admitted Scotland endured a major reality check under Sebastien Pocognoli after being thoroughly outclassed in a 3-0 Nations League defeat against Switzerland. An early red card for Jack Hendry paved the way for a bruising evening at Hampden Park, leaving the newly appointed manager still searching for his first victory in the dugout.
Switzerland have been rocked by further controversy after Breel Embolo became the second high-profile star to be removed from their Nations League squad. The Atlanta United forward follows captain Granit Xhaka in withdrawing from international duty due to ongoing legal issues regarding forged COVID-19 certificates.
Granit Xhaka has officially withdrawn from the Switzerland national team squad after admitting to the fraudulent acquisition of a Covid-19 vaccination certificate. The Sunderland captain, who was playing for Arsenal at the time of the incident in 2022, described the decision as a "mistake" and will now face a legal inquiry in his homeland.
The 2026 World Cup is over, and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. With the expanded 48-nation tournament coming to a close, following a month of thrilling action in North America, which star has taken home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL lists the tournament's most prolific performers.
Aston Villa have completed the signing of Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi from Freiburg in a deal reportedly worth in excess of £50 million. The 20-year-old arrives after a breakthrough 2026 World Cup and is expected to play a key role in Unai Emery's plans following Youri Tielemans' departure.
Lionel Messi has described Argentina’s upcoming World Cup semi-final tie against England as "special", as the legendary playmaker prepares for a rare career first in Atlanta. Following hard-fought quarter-final victories for both heavyweights, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is relishing the chance to finally face the Three Lions on the international stage.
Lionel Messi was involved in a heated confrontation with referee Joao Pedro Pinheiro during Argentina’s dramatic 2026 World Cup quarter-final victory over Switzerland. The Inter Miami superstar was caught on camera demanding respect from the Portuguese official following a disagreement over a defensive wall.
Switzerland have sensationally hit out at match officials following their World Cup exit, claiming a controversial VAR intervention "destroyed" their quarter-final clash against Argentina. The European side were left reeling after Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation following a bizarre "mistaken identity" review that has sparked massive debate across the globe.
Lionel Messi has hailed the resilience of his Argentina side after they survived a major scare against 10-man Switzerland to book their place in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. The legendary No.10 is now preparing for a historic showdown against England in Atlanta, marking the first time he will face the Three Lions in his career.
Julian Alvarez had largely struggled through the 2026 World Cup, but he delivered when Argentina needed him most, scoring a stunning goal in a hard-fought 3-1 win over Switzerland that set-up a semi-final against England. The scoreline flattered La Albiceleste, as the Swiss went blow for blow with the reigning champions and had reason to feel aggrieved by the officiating.
Argentina have found themselves at the centre of a storm in the wake of their scintillating World Cup last-16 victory over Egypt on Tuesday, amid sensational accusations of corruption and favouritism. However, this is one occasion where the demonisation of the Albiceleste doesn't feel justified. Two goals down against the rank underdogs in the second half, the holders survived by the skin of their teeth - coming from behind to miraculously turn the tie on its head in the space of 14 minutes at the very end of the match. But since the final whistle in Atlanta, the gravity of that feat has been overshadowed.
Comprehensive match preview of Argentina vs Switzerland at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more ahead of this quarter-final clash in Kansas City.
Switzerland's stars are fully motivated ahead of their monumental World Cup quarter-final showdown against reigning champions Argentina in Kansas City. Skipper Granit Xhaka has declared that his team is eager to cause a significant upset in the tournament, while several players relish the dream privilege of facing Lionel Messi for the first time.
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