Vancouver: Switzerland booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in regulation and extra time. The hard-fought Round of 16 victory sets up a mouthwatering last-eight clash with defending champions Argentina.
Swiss captain Granit Xhaka, Zeki Amdouni, Cédric Itten and Rubín Vargas all converted their penalties in the shootout. For Colombia, Juan Quintero, Jhon Arias Campaz and Luis Díaz found the net, but Davinson Sánchez and Juan Camilo “Cucho” Hernández failed to convert, allowing Switzerland to seal a memorable victory.
Vargas scored the decisive penalty to send Switzerland into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. The result also extended Switzerland’s impressive run, with the team losing just one of its last 19 international matches.
Switzerland entered the knockout fixture with a major setback after dynamic forward Johan Manzambi was ruled out due to a knee injury. His absence was evident in attack as Colombia created the better chances during the opening stages.
Gustavo Puerta came close to giving Colombia an early lead with a powerful long-range strike, only for Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel to produce an excellent diving save. Kobel was called into action again moments later, denying Jhon Lucumí’s header with another outstanding stop.
Switzerland’s best opportunity in normal time came through winger Fabian Rieder, whose fierce effort from outside the penalty area was comfortably saved by the Colombian goalkeeper. The deadlock remained unbroken throughout regulation time.
Colombia nearly snatched victory in extra time when Lucumí’s powerful header struck the post and bounced away, forcing the match into a penalty shootout where Switzerland held their nerve.
Swiss head coach Murat Yakin praised his side’s discipline and tactical execution after the victory.
“Everything went according to our plan. In the end, only the result matters. The changes we made in the second half helped us gain better control of possession, and we introduced players who were prepared for the penalty shootout. A bit of luck is always part of football,” Yakin said.
Captain Granit Xhaka described the current Swiss squad as one of the country’s finest.
“I believe this generation of Swiss footballers is special. We have waited a long time for a team like this. The younger players have pushed everyone to raise their standards, and we must continue to perform consistently. For a small country like ours, our mentality is our greatest strength,” Xhaka said.
Switzerland will now face Lionel Messi-led Argentina in the quarter-finals, with both teams aiming to move one step closer to World Cup glory.
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