FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a goalless draw over 120 minutes in the Round of 16.
Both teams fought hard throughout the contest, but neither could find the breakthrough during regular or extra time. In the end, Switzerland held their composure from the penalty spot to secure a memorable victory and set up a quarter-final clash against Argentina.
Tight opening half as defences dominate
The match began cautiously, with both teams focusing on maintaining their defensive shape rather than committing too many players forward.
Colombia produced the first real chance of the game when Gustavo Puerta tested Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel from outside the box.
Switzerland gradually settled into the contest and threatened through Fabian Rieder and Dan Ndoye, but Camilo Vargas made a couple of important saves to keep the score level. Neither side managed to create many clear-cut opportunities, and the first half ended without a goal.
Chances increase after the break
The second half brought more attacking intent from both sides. Switzerland came close through Fabian Rieder, whose dangerous free-kick narrowly missed the target.
Colombia looked more threatening as Luis Diaz and Luis Suarez combined well in attack, forcing the Swiss defence to remain alert.
As the match entered extra time, the South Americans created the best chances of the evening. Jhon Lucumí’s powerful header struck the crossbar, while Jaminton Campaz failed to convert from a promising position inside the penalty area.
Switzerland also had an opportunity to snatch victory, but Camilo Vargas denied Zeki Amdouni with a fine save. With neither team able to score, the match was decided by penalties.
Switzerland keep their cool in shootout
The penalty shootout started dramatically as Manuel Akanji missed Switzerland’s opening kick. However, Colombia were unable to take advantage.
Davinson Sanchez hit the crossbar before Gregor Kobel produced a crucial save to stop Cucho Hernández.
The pressure then shifted back to Switzerland, and Ruben Vargas calmly converted the winning penalty to seal a 4-3 shootout triumph and send the Swiss players into wild celebrations.
Switzerland create history
The victory takes Switzerland into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in more than seven decades.
Their disciplined defending, patient approach and calmness during the penalty shootout proved to be the difference in one of the tournament’s closest knockout matches.
Head coach Murat Yakin’s tactical changes also played an important role, with substitute Ruben Vargas emerging as the hero after scoring the decisive penalty.
Colombia’s impressive campaign comes to an end
Colombia’s World Cup journey ended in heartbreaking fashion despite another determined display. The team showed plenty of fight throughout the contest and created enough chances to win the game, but they lacked the finishing touch when it mattered most.
Although their campaign ends in disappointment, Colombia leave the tournament after producing several strong performances against top-quality opposition.