Switzerland Beat Colombia to Reach World Cup Quarter-finals

Switzerland secured a dramatic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Colombia in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw in Vancouver.

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Ruben Vargas converted the decisive spot-kick as the Swiss won the shootout after Colombia's Davinson Sanchez struck the crossbar and Cucho Hernandez saw his effort saved by Gregor Kobel, who delivered a Player of the Match performance.

Switzerland entered the contest without injured breakout star Johan Manzambi, whose absence affected their attacking rhythm. Colombia controlled much of the opening half but struggled to create clear opportunities, with Gustavo Puerta's curling effort producing an excellent save from Kobel.

The second half remained tightly contested. Colombia came closest through Luis Suarez, who fired wide from a promising position, while Switzerland threatened when Fabian Rieder's powerful volley was comfortably stopped by goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.

Extra time produced the best chances of the match. Jhon Lucumi headed against the crossbar for Colombia, Zeki Amdouni forced a save from Vargas, and Jaminton Campaz missed a golden opportunity as both sides searched for a breakthrough.

With neither team able to score, the match was decided from the penalty spot. Kobel emerged as Switzerland's hero, denying Hernandez after Sanchez's miss, before

Ruben Vargas calmly converted the winning penalty to send Murat Yakin's side into their first FIFA World Cup quarter-final in more than 70 years.

Switzerland will now face Argentina in the last eight as they continue their memorable World Cup campaign.

Chosen by the fans: Gregor Kobel, your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match. 🔥

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/IrnxHHVpQ1

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 7, 2026

Player of the Match :Gregor Kobel (Switzerland)

Switzerland head coach Murat Yakin praised his team's disciplined approach after the victory.
"It worked out exactly the way we wanted it to. At the start, we needed experience and the right mentality. In the second half, our substitutions gave us more control, especially in possession. We also brought on the players we wanted for the penalty shootout. You always have a plan. When it works, it's even more satisfying. Of course, we also had a bit of luck today, and that's part of football."