The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered its first weekend with three exciting clashes scheduled for Sunday. The third day of the tournament will feature Qatar, Switzerland, Haiti, Scotland, Australia, and Turkiye in action. The back-to-back fixtures are set to take place in Santa Clara, Foxborough, and Vancouver.
Qatar vs Switzerland
The opening game of the day promises to be an engaging contest. Let's examine the recent form of both teams. Qatar has failed to secure a win in their last eight matches. Their most recent game against El Salvador ended in a goalless draw. The team's last victory came against the UAE in the World Cup Qualifiers on October 14, 2025. In contrast, Switzerland's recent run has been slightly more encouraging, with three wins in their last eight clashes. Their last match against Australia ended in a 1-1 draw.
Haiti vs Scotland
Haiti's recent matches have been a mix of friendlies and World Cup Qualifiers. In their last eight games, Haiti has managed four victories, including a commanding 4-0 triumph over New Zealand in a friendly. However, Scotland's recent campaign has been quite impressive, with five wins in eight games, dominating Bolivia and Curacao in their last two friendlies. The team put on a strong performance for the spectators.
Australia vs Turkiye
Australia's campaign in recent fixtures has been far from impressive. The side has managed only three victories in their last eight matches, including a draw against Switzerland in their last clash. Their last win came against Canada in a friendly, with a 1-0 scoreline. Turkiye, on the other hand, has displayed incredible form, going undefeated in their last eight games, with one clash ending in a 2-2 draw against Spain. Their dominant 6-1 win over Bulgaria in the World Cup Qualifiers was a spectacle.
Match Timings and Venues
- Qatar vs Switzerland (Group B): 12:30 am IST, San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, Santa Clara
- Haiti vs Scotland (Group C): 6:30 am IST, Boston Stadium, Foxborough
- Australia vs Turkiye (Group D): 9:30 am IST, BC Place, Vancouver
Predicted Lineups
Qatar vs Switzerland
Qatar (4-3-3, Coach: Julen Lopetegui): Abunada; C, Al-Oui, Miguel, Khoukhi, Ahmed; Gaber, Fathy, Laye; Abdurisag, Afif, Edmilson Junior.
Switzerland (4-2-3-1, Coach: Murat Yakin): Kobel; C, Widmer, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Xhaka, Freuler; Vargas, Manzambi, Ndoye; Embolo.
Haiti vs Scotland
Haiti (4-4-2, Coach: Sebastien Migne): Placide; C, Arcus, Ade, Delcroix, Experience; Deedson, Bellegarde, Jacques, Providence; Isidor, Pierrot.
Scotland (4-4-2, Coach: Steve Clarke): Gunn; C, Hickey, Hanley, Souttar, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, McTominay, Ferguson, McGinn; Shankland, Adams.
Australia vs Turkiye
Australia (3-4-2-1, Coach: Tony Popovic): Ryan; C, Circati, Souttar, Burgess; Italiano, Irvine, Metcalfe, Bos; Volpato, Hrustic; Yengi.
Turkiye (4-2-3-1, Coach: Vincenzo Montella): Cakir; C, Celik, Demiral, Bardakci, Kadioglu; Yuksek, Kokcu; Akgun, Guler, Yildiz; Gul.
Match Predictions
Qatar vs Switzerland: Switzerland has a slightly better chance of winning. Based on recent stats, the match might end 1-0 in favor of Switzerland.
Haiti vs Scotland: Both teams have equal chances. The game could conclude in a 2-2 draw.
Australia vs Turkiye: Turkiye dominates this fixture, having gone undefeated in their last eight games and dominating their last four clashes. Australia's campaign has been disappointing, so Turkiye holds the upper hand. The match might end 4-1 with Turkiye clinching the win.
Where to Watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be streamed live on the ZEE5 website and app. It will also be telecast live on Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD. Fans in India can watch the matches on these platforms.
