Switzerland brace for defensive Israel as captain Wälti stresses focus

At the modest Mezökövesd stadium, a crowd of just 4,500 will watch the Swiss women’s national team – the Nati – prepare for a tightly organised Israeli side. Captain Lia Wälti, speaking at the pre‑match press conference, warned that the opposition will sit deep and that her team must stay patient.

Political backdrop and team focus

The political dimension of the playoff games has occupied a surprising amount of Raum during the week‑long training camp on the GC‑Campus in Niederhasli. Wälti reiterated that the squad will not engage in any actions related to the Middle‑East conflict, insisting the issue is not being ignored but kept internal.

"The message is not for the media. It is something internal to our Team. It is not about creating headlines, but about thinking of the people affected, especially the children and civilians," she said, underscoring the seriousness of the Thema.

Preparing for a defensive opponent

Switzerland expects a very defensive, low‑block opponent on Friday, a situation they have become accustomed to. In the World Cup qualifying group stage, the Nati often dominated possession while opponents retreated and looked to counter‑attack.

Midfielder Wälti, who plays for Brighton, explained the required Art of play: "Patience is needed and a solid defensive base. We want to take the favourite role without being arrogant."

Coach Rafel Navarro, having studied Israel’s Nations League performances, does not anticipate a change in the opponent’s core concept. He added that the team’s preparation is hampered by the hotel’s distance from the stadium, but they will adapt and avoid excuses.

Match stakes and logistics

A clear win in the first leg would ease nerves for the return match in Sitten on Tuesday, keeping the path to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil open. "Primarily the goal is to win. We also do not know exactly what awaits us in Hungary," Wälti said.

The Nati will be based in Budapest, travelling about an hour and a half to Mezökövesd. No fans will be admitted, meaning the stadium will be empty despite its 4,500‑seat capacity.

The live broadcast will be on SRF 2 and the Sport App from 20:00 on Friday, offering supporters a chance to follow the Playoff encounter despite the empty stands.