FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland reach first WC quarterfinal since 1954, beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties
Vancouver, July 8
Switzerland marched into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, beating Colombia 4-3 on penalties after the match ended in a goalless draw despite being taken to extra time at Vancouver on Tuesday.
Switzerland has made it to the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal for the fourth time in its history, which has spanned 13 WC appearances. In the 21st century, they have finished in the round of 16 across four editions, including the last three. This marks their first-ever WC quarterfinal appearance since the 1954 edition.
During the penalty shootout, Colombia faced a setback as Davinson Sanchez had his spot kick smashed against the bar, while Cucho Hernandez's effort was saved by the goalkeeper, before Ruben Vargas delivered the decider blow to book a quarterfinal clash against defending champions Argentina.
It is for the first time ever that Switzerland, which missed the services of its rising star Johan Manzambi due to a knee injury sustained during training, won multiple knockout matches during a single FIFA WC edition. The absence of their livewire star was felt during the first half as Colombia dominated, despite not being able to make any clear-cut chances. The best effort was presented by Gustavo Puerta from outside the box, a curler, which was saved by Kobel.
Both sides struggled to get real chances at scoring, and Colombia fans' had their patience tested as Luis Suarez' aim in the second half was wastefully wide. On the other end, Camilo Vargas, the Colombian goalie, did not have to work much, except for saving a left-footed volley rifled by Fabian Rieder.
During the extra time, there were moments of excitement, with Colombia's Jhon Lucumi attempting a header which crashed into the crossbar and Swiss substitute Zeki Amdouni forcing a save from Vargas.
Then things came down to penalties, where Vargas fired the decisive spot kick, sending the Swiss team into the final eight.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm a bit disappointed Colombia couldn't finish. They dominated possession in the first half but lacked clinical finishing. Sanchez hitting the bar in penalties summed up their luck. Switzerland deserved it though—they held their nerve. Let's see if they can challenge Argentina next.
This World Cup just keeps giving surprises! Switzerland missing Manzambi due to injury was a big blow, but their squad depth showed. Colombia's fans were loud but their team couldn't deliver when it mattered. As an Indian football fan, I love seeing smaller nations like Switzerland make history. Argentina vs Switzerland—that's going to be a thriller! 🔥
Honestly, it was a boring match until penalties. Both teams played too cautiously—0-0 for 120 minutes is not exciting for neutral fans. Colombia had more energy but wasted chances. Switzerland just parked the bus and hoped for penalties. Football needs more attacking intent, not this defensive approach. Just my opinion 🤷♂️
Switzerland's goalkeeper Yann Sommer? Wait, it was Kobel today! He made that save against Puerta in the first half which kept them in the game. Penalty shootouts are cruel but exciting. Colombia's Cucho Hernandez will be gutted. As an Indian, I feel for the underdogs, but Switzerland showed they're not just there to fill numbers. Respect! 👏
What a moment for Switzerland! Fourth time in quarters, first since 1954! As someone who grew up watching WC with my father, this gives me chills. The penalty shootout was pure drama—Vargas stepping up to score the
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