Switzerland Consider Silvan Widmer Replacement vs Algeria

Jaquez offers a lower-risk switch

Jaquez reportedly impressed during Switzerland’s 2-1 victory over Canada on 24 June, making him the natural replacement if the coaching staff opts against risking Widmer.

The change would preserve Switzerland’s central defensive partnership and experienced left side. The report projects a back four of:

  • Luca Jaquez, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez

That continuity matters in a match where defensive positioning and transition control could decide qualification. Jaquez would bring a different profile to Widmer, but the switch would avoid disrupting the centre of the defence.

Manzambi holds the attacking key

The bigger tactical adjustment could come higher up the pitch. The report places Johan Manzambi in a more advanced midfield role than the one he usually occupies for Freiburg, with Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler providing structure behind him.

The update credits Manzambi with three goals and one assist at the tournament, making his positioning one of Switzerland’s clearest attacking decisions. Starting between midfield and attack would allow him to support Breel Embolo while giving Switzerland another runner around Algeria’s defensive line.

The projected XI is:

  • Gregor Kobel
  • Luca Jaquez, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez
  • Remo Freuler, Granit Xhaka
  • Djibril Sow, Johan Manzambi, Ruben Vargas
  • Breel Embolo

Switzerland’s final decision may come down to Widmer’s fitness. If he cannot start, Jaquez and Manzambi could define a lineup that prioritises physical security at the back and greater movement behind Embolo.