Build up to the match
Switzerland will come into this game knowing they are on top of Group B in the European qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup. However, they also know that close-rivals Portugal, who are in second place, are just waiting for them to make a mistake. Three points separate the two sides and should the Swiss lose against Hungary come Saturday, they may well kiss their automatic qualification goodbye.
Match Information
Kickoff: Saturday, 7th October 2017, 8:45PM local time
Venue: St Jakob Park, Basel, Switzerland
Team News
Juventus defender Stephan Lichsteiner will once again wear the captain’s armband for his country come Saturday, eager to lead his side to another win. Alongside him in defence will be former Arsenal star Johan Djourou, who will no doubt utilise his experience to keep a firm back line for Switzerland. Granit Xhaka, Xherdan Shaqiri, and Haris Seferovic will provide lethal options in attack.
Goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi will swap his RB Leipzig kit for his country’s colours come Saturday, as he defends Hungary’s goal. Captain Balasz Dzsudzsak is also available for selection to lead his team from the midfield, controlling the game’s pace and play. Striker Daniel Bode will provide a familiar channel in attack, although young Roland Ugrai from local side DVTK, could be given a first cap.
Form
Switzerland
W-W-W-W-W
Switzerland are on fire at the moment, winning all of their eight previous qualifying matches, keeping six clean sheets, and a fantastic 2-0 win against Portugal last year. If they keep the momentum going in this match, they may well find themselves cruising to victory.
Hungary
L-W-L-L-W
Hungary’s bitter 1-0 defeat against Portugal last month was a hard pill to swallow, especially after they fought valiantly against what many considered to be overwhelming favourites to win the game. If Hungary can improve on that performance come Saturday, then they could grab a worthwhile result come the end of the night.
Match Prediction
Switzerland are in blistering form, are playing at home, and simply has the better quality player-per-player. There simply couldn’t be any other result other than a Swiss win in this game, unless the Schweizer Nati do something foolish.
Switzerland 3-0 Hungary