New Delhi: Twenty-year-old substitute striker Johan Manzambi produced a stunning late show, scoring twice to inspire Switzerland to a convincing 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B clash at Los Angeles Stadium on Friday.
In a match that appeared destined for a draw for long periods, all five goals arrived in the final 24 minutes, with Switzerland unleashing an explosive finish to secure their first win of the tournament. Substitute Ruben Vargas and captain Granit Xhaka also found the net, while Armin Mahmic scored Bosnia and Herzegovina’s lone goal deep into stoppage time.
Having opened their campaign with a draw against Qatar, Switzerland now have four points from two matches and sit second in Group B, behind Canada on goal difference.
The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Manzambi, introduced after halftime, burst into the penalty area and unleashed a powerful strike to give Switzerland a 1-0 lead. Ten minutes later, Vargas doubled the advantage with a composed finish, putting the Swiss firmly in control.
Manzambi then sealed his memorable night by scoring his second goal in the 90th minute, making it 3-0 and effectively ending Bosnia’s hopes of a comeback. Mahmic briefly reduced the deficit in the third minute of stoppage time, but Switzerland had the final word when Xhaka calmly converted a penalty just before the final whistle to complete the 4-1 rout.
The young forward’s remarkable performance also earned him a place in Swiss football history, as he became the youngest Swiss player ever to score in a FIFA World Cup. Had he taken the late penalty instead of Xhaka, he would have had the opportunity to complete a dream hat-trick.
Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin praised his team’s patience and tactical discipline.
“We knew we had to remain calm and wait for the right opportunities. Our players showed great maturity and discipline. Once Bosnia began to tire, our fresh attacking players made the difference,” Yakin said.
A delighted Manzambi described the achievement as the biggest moment of his career.
“Scoring two goals at a World Cup and helping my country win is a dream come true. We stayed patient, trusted our plan, and showed the quality of this Swiss team,” he said.
Bosnia and Herzegovina coach Sergej Barbarez admitted his side was outplayed in the closing stages.
“We were competitive for much of the match, but Switzerland showed their quality and punished us. This is our first defeat in ten matches, but the tournament is not over. We still have one game left and will fight to stay alive,” he said.
With Manzambi emerging as one of the tournament’s brightest young stars, Switzerland’s emphatic victory has significantly boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
