Switzerland secured a dramatic place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026Â after defeating Colombia in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw in Vancouver.
The hard-fought victory sends the Swiss into the last eight of the tournament for the first time in more than seven decades, where they will face defending champions Argentina in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash.
Ruben Vargas calmly converted the decisive penalty after Colombia’s Davinson Sanchez and Cucho Hernandez both failed from the spot, while Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel emerged as one of the heroes of the evening with a crucial save during the shootout.
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Switzerland entered the knockout encounter without rising star Johan Manzambi, who was ruled out before kick-off with a knee injury. The absence of the young attacker was evident as Murat Yakin’s side struggled to create opportunities during a first half largely controlled by Colombia.
Despite enjoying more possession, Colombia failed to carve out clear-cut chances. Their closest effort came through Gustavo Puerta, whose curling strike from outside the penalty area forced Kobel into an outstanding acrobatic save.
The South Americans continued to press after the break but were left frustrated when Luis Suarez fired wide after finding space inside the Swiss half.
Switzerland gradually grew into the contest, with Fabian Rieder producing their best opportunity in normal time. His powerful left-footed volley was comfortably gathered by Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
Extra time finally produced end-to-end action as both teams searched for a breakthrough.
Colombia came within inches of scoring when Jhon Lucumi’s towering header crashed against the crossbar. Switzerland responded through substitute Zeki Amdouni, whose effort was well saved by Vargas, before Jaminton Campaz squandered a glorious opportunity by blasting over the crossbar.
With neither side able to find the decisive goal, the match went to penalties.
Switzerland held their nerve from 12 yards as Sanchez struck the underside of the crossbar before Hernandez saw his effort brilliantly saved by Kobel. Vargas then stepped forward to bury the winning penalty and spark jubilant celebrations among the Swiss players and supporters.
The victory sets up an exciting quarter-final encounter against Argentina as Switzerland continue their impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign