Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to reach first World Cup quarter-final since 1954
Switzerland defeated Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw in Vancouver, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years and setting up a meeting with holders Argentina.
Pre-match blow
Switzerland were dealt a major setback hours before kickoff when 20-year-old attacker Johan Manzambi, their breakout star with three goals and two assists, was ruled out with a knee contusion suffered in training. Coach Murat Yakin tore up his original game plan, opting for a deep defensive block and leaving Breel Embolo to forage alone up front. Colombia, backed by a overwhelmingly pro-Colombian crowd at BC Place, entered the match having conceded just once all tournament.
Cagey affair
The first clear chance fell to Colombia in the 21st minute, when Gustavo Puerta curled a shot from 18 yards that forced Gregor Kobel into a diving save. Switzerland responded through Fabian Rieder, whose tight-angle effort was parried by Camilo Vargas. Dan Ndoye nearly snatched a winner in stoppage time, dragging a low shot just wide. In extra time, Jhon Lucumi rose unmarked to head against the crossbar, the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock.
- Johan Manzambi ruled out with knee injury; Switzerland adjust tactics.
- Gustavo Puerta's curling shot from 18 yards saved by Gregor Kobel.
- Fabian Rieder's tight-angle effort parried by Camilo Vargas.
- Dan Ndoye drags a low shot just wide of the far post.
- Jhon Lucumi's unmarked header crashes against the crossbar.
- Kobel saves Cucho Hernandez; Davinson Sanchez hits bar; Manuel Akanji misses; Ruben Vargas scores winner.
Penalty drama
The shootout swung when Kobel saved Cucho Hernandez's penalty after Davinson Sanchez had struck the bar. Manuel Akanji then blazed over for Switzerland, but substitute Ruben Vargas kept his cool to stroke the decisive kick into the bottom corner.
It was difficult in the beginning but we stayed in it and showed great mentality. Then I brought on the right players at the right moment.
Historic achievement
Switzerland reached the last eight for the first time since hosting the 1954 tournament. Kobel, who succeeded Yann Sommer as first-choice goalkeeper after Euro 2024, was emotional after the match.
Akanji, who had missed in shootouts at Euro 2021 and Euro 2024, said his penalty was "catastrophic" and declared it would be his last.Sportingly, this is definitely one of the most beautiful moments of my life.
Next up: Argentina
The Swiss will face defending champions Argentina at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Saturday. Lionel Messi's side needed a comeback from two goals down to beat Egypt 3-2 in their round-of-16 tie. Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka and his teammates enter the match as underdogs but buoyed by a belief that they can beat any opponent.
