Switzerland Women’s Football: Squad & Qualifiers for World Cup 2027

Lausanne, Switzerland – March 3rd marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Switzerland women’s national football team as they kick off their qualifying campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Head coach Rafel Navarro has announced his squad, placing a clear emphasis on experience as they prepare to face Northern Ireland in Lausanne, followed by an away match against Malta four days later.

The Swiss are widely considered favorites in their qualifying group, which also includes Turkey. Navarro’s team will need to deliver on that expectation to secure one of the coveted spots in the expanded 32-team World Cup tournament, which will be hosted in Brazil from June 24th to July 25th, 2027.

This qualification attempt is particularly significant as it represents a continued upward trajectory for Swiss women’s football. The team has steadily grown in prominence, reaching the Round of 16 at both the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, and recently achieving a quarter-final appearance at the 2025 European Championship – their best result to date in the competition. The program is aiming for a fourth consecutive appearance in a major tournament, demonstrating a consistent level of competitiveness on the international stage.

The selection process, revealed today, underscores Navarro’s belief in the core group that has driven this success. While the specific composition of the squad wasn’t detailed in available reports, the emphasis on experienced players suggests a pragmatic approach focused on consistency and tactical familiarity. This strategy is likely intended to navigate the challenges of the qualifying group and avoid any early stumbles.

Switzerland’s journey to the 2015 World Cup in Canada was a landmark moment, marking the first time both the men’s and women’s national teams had qualified for the tournament simultaneously. Building on that foundation, the team has continued to establish itself as a force in European women’s football. Their recent performances, including a significant September 6th, 2022 victory over Moldova with a resounding 15-0 scoreline, highlight their attacking prowess and ability to dominate opponents.

However, the team is also aware of past setbacks. A heavy defeat against Germany, 11-0 on September 25th, 1994, serves as a reminder of the challenges that can arise against top-tier opposition. Navarro will be keen to ensure his team maintains focus and avoids complacency as they navigate the qualifying path.

Currently ranked 25th in the FIFA rankings as of December 11th, 2025, Switzerland’s highest ever ranking was 15th in 2016, while their lowest was 31st in 2007. The team’s first international match took place on May 4th, 1972, a 2-2 draw against France in Basel. The program has come a long way since then, and the current generation of players is determined to build on that legacy.

Ana-Maria Crnogorčević holds the distinction of being the team’s all-time leading scorer with 74 goals and also boasts the most caps with 176 appearances. Lia Wälti currently captains the side, providing leadership and experience in midfield. These key figures will be crucial to Switzerland’s success in the upcoming qualifiers.

Ahead of the match against Northern Ireland, the Swiss team held a public training session at La Tuilière on February 25th, allowing fans to get a glimpse of the squad preparing for the challenges ahead. This engagement with the local community underscores the growing popularity of women’s football in Switzerland.

The upcoming matches against Northern Ireland and Malta represent the first steps on the road to Brazil. Navarro and his team are under no illusions about the task ahead, but with a blend of experience, talent, and a clear sense of purpose, they are well-positioned to make a strong push for qualification and continue their impressive run in international football.