Switzerland and Serbia will battle it out on Friday for Group G’s remaining knockout slot, in a rematch of the 2018 World Cup clash that may reignite political tensions between the teams.

Switzerland, on three points, appear well-placed to join Brazil in the last 16. A win at Stadium 974 on Friday would guarantee them a spot, while a draw would also be enough. Unless, Cameroon pull off an upset win over Brazil, which would mean goal difference will be a determining factor.

The Serbs, like Cameroon, need a win for a chance to advance.

Switzerland and Serbia have only played each other once, in the group stage in Russia. That match remains etched in memory, as one with heavy political undertones.

Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, born in Basel to ethnic Albanian parents from Kosovo, had celebrated his goal against Serbia by forming a double-headed eagle with his hands, an Albanian nationalist symbol. Xherdan Shaqiri — born in Kosovo, which declared its independence from Serbia in 2008 — added another goal and replicated Xhaka’s celebration.

That infuriated the Serbia side and prompted Fifa to fine both players for unsporting behaviour.

Xhaka brushed aside what had happened four years ago. “There’s nothing in the history behind these two games,” the captain said. “We are Switzerland, they are Serbia. That’s it.”

Written with Reuters inputs