Switzerland face Algeria at the
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Ever since the 71st-minute introductions of Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Matchday 2, Switzerland have looked a very different team. The duo make an immediate impact at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, with Vargas registering a goal and an assist, and Manzambi scoring twice.
Against Canada, they then became the first pair of Switzerland players to both score in back-to-back World Cup matches since 1954. Newcastle target Manzambi, in particular, has proven himself to be a game-changer.
A rising star with Freiburg, the 20-year-old attacker has not only been clinical in front of goal, but his devastating running power adds an extra dimension to the Swiss attack. It would be no surprise if he adds to his already impressive tally against Algeria.
The Fennec Foxes may come into the game as underdogs but they also possess serious quality in an attack that blends youth and experience. Riyad Mahrez, 35, already has two goals and an assist to his name, while 20-year-old Ibrahim Maza completed the most dribbles (13) during the group stage.
Both players shone in the thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria that included a remarkable 110-pass move finished off by Mahrez.
There are, though, concerns at the other end of the pitch. Algeria conceded seven times in the group and it has been all too easy for the opposition to carve out chances. That must be addressed if they are to set up a potential showdown with Colombia or Ghana in the last 16.
FourFourTwo’s prediction
Switzerland 2-1 Algeria
FourFourTwo predicts the Swiss to edge an entertaining contest.
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