Johan Manzambi is set to make his debut as a starter for the Swiss national team in a competitive match against Kosovo. Head coach Murat Yakin has implemented two changes from the previous match, bringing in Djibril Sow and the young Freiburg player Manzambi to replace Dan Ndoye and Fabian Rieder in the starting lineup.
At only 20 years old, Manzambi has earned this opportunity after impressing with his performances as a substitute. He is expected to take on a wing position, while Sow is anticipated to play centrally. Supporting striker Breel Embolo will be Ruben Vargas, adding depth to Switzerland’s attacking front.
On the defensive side, Yakin is maintaining a consistent backline for this crucial World Cup qualifier. Silvan Widmer, Nico Elvedi, Manuel Akanji, and Ricardo Rodriguez will form the defense in front of goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. The midfield duo of Michel Aebischer and team captain Granit Xhaka will aid in both defense and transition play.
Notably, Kosovo’s lineup is missing key players Albian Hajdari and Leon Avdullahu, who were rested to avoid suspension for the upcoming playoff. Coach Franco Foda has opted to start Fisnik Asllani alongside Vedat Muriqi in the attack.
The match is set to kick off in Pristina at 8:45 PM, with Switzerland in a comfortable position where they can afford to lose by up to five goals yet still secure the top spot in their group, ensuring direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Switzerland’s expected lineup includes: Kobel; Widmer, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez; Aebischer, Xhaka; Manzambi, Sow, Vargas; Embolo. Kosovo’s lineup will feature Muric; Dellova, Amir Rrahmani, Aliti; Vojvoda, Rexhbecaj, Hodza, Gallapeni; Muslija; Muriqi, Asllani.
This match presents a significant moment for Manzambi, and fans will be eager to see how the young talent performs on such an important stage.