Switzerland to Play Israel in Hungary and Sion for 2027 Women’s World Cup Playoffs
The Swiss women’s national football team will play the return leg of their first-round 2027 World Cup playoff against Israel in Sion at Stade de Tourbillon on October 13, 2026, according to announcements by the Association Suisse de Football (ASF). Head coach Rafel Navarro’s squad must navigate this fixture and subsequent playoff rounds to secure qualification for the tournament in Brazil.
The Playoff Pathway to Brazil
To reach the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup scheduled from June 24 to July 25, 2027, the Swiss selection faces a demanding multi-stage qualification format. According to match schedules published by Blick, the team must first eliminate Israel across a two-legged playoff before advancing to face either Austria or Kosovo in a second double-header scheduled between November 26 and December 5, 2026.
The logistical framework for the opening round requires neutral-venue arrangements for the initial fixture. Per reports from RTS, the match designated as Israel’s home leg is set to take place in Hungary, where the Israeli national teams have played their home fixtures since October 2023. Four days after that neutral-site encounter, the action shifts to the Valais canton.
Sion Host Logistics and Ticket Sales
Stade de Tourbillon in Sion will host the decisive second leg on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, kicking off at 19:30, as detailed by 20 Minutes. The fixture has already generated regional discussion, including local youth protests in Valais regarding the venue choice, reported Le Nouvelliste. Meanwhile, ticketing operations are set to open to the public on Monday, September 14, 2026, according to the ASF.
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Coaching Staff Restructuring
Alongside preparations for the October fixtures, the ASF confirmed a structural alteration within the technical staff of the women’s national team. Spanish assistant coach and video analyst Ignacio Villamia Mora departed his role to join Real Sociedad. According to 24 Heures, the federation filled the vacancy by appointing Arnau Alcoverro, who previously worked with Danish club FC Helsingør.
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