Switzerland booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after defeating Colombia 4-3 on penalties following a goalless 120-minute Round of 16 encounter. The victory marks Switzerland’s first appearance in a FIFA World Cup quarter-final since hosting the tournament in 1954, setting up a blockbuster clash with defending champions Argentina.
Switzerland Triumph in Tense Penalty Shootout
In a tightly contested match with limited clear-cut opportunities, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel emerged as Switzerland’s hero. After making several crucial saves during the game, Kobel denied Juan Hernandez in the penalty shootout before Ruben Vargas confidently converted the winning spot-kick to send Murat Yakin’s side into the last eight.
First Half Lacked Clear Chances
Both teams struggled to create meaningful opportunities during the opening 45 minutes. Colombia enjoyed slightly more possession and looked the more dangerous side going forward.
The best chance of the half came in the 21st minute when Gustavo Puerta forced Kobel into an excellent save with a curling effort from distance. Switzerland responded through Dan Ndoye and Fabian Rieder, but Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas remained largely untested.
At half-time, the expected goals (xG) reflected the cautious contest:
| Team | xG (First Half) |
|---|---|
| Colombia | 0.25 |
| Switzerland | 0.06 |
Switzerland Improved After the Break
Switzerland showed greater attacking intent after the restart. Djibril Sow missed a good opportunity shortly after half-time, while Fabian Rieder’s curling free-kick narrowly missed the target.
The Swiss almost found a dramatic winner in stoppage time when Manuel Akanji released Dan Ndoye, whose shot flashed inches wide of goal.
Related Story: Argentina will face Switzerland in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-final on Sunday, 12 July 2026 at 06:30 AM IST. The match will be streamed live on ZEE5 with Malayalam commentary, along with Hindi, English, and Bangla options. Switzerland reached the quarter-finals after beating Colombia on penalties, while Argentina entered the last eight after a thrilling win over Egypt.
Extra Time Produced the Best Chances
Extra time finally brought end-to-end action.
Colombia came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 99th minute when Jhon Lucumí headed against the crossbar from a Juan Quintero corner before Kobel produced another outstanding save to deny Jaminton Campaz.
Switzerland responded through substitute Zeki Amdouni, but Vargas kept the scores level with an excellent save.
The biggest chance of the match arrived in the 116th minute when Campaz was sent clear on goal, only to blaze his effort over the crossbar.
Despite finishing with a superior 1.03 xG compared to Switzerland’s 0.35, Colombia failed to convert their opportunities.
Penalty Shootout
Switzerland held their composure from the spot to secure a famous victory.
| Penalty Shootout | Result |
|---|---|
| Switzerland | 4 |
| Colombia | 3 |
The decisive moments included:
- Gregor Kobel saved Juan Hernandez’s penalty.
- Davinson Sánchez struck the crossbar.
- Manuel Akanji missed to give Colombia hope.
- Ruben Vargas converted the winning penalty.
Quarter-final Awaits
The defeat extended Colombia’s World Cup penalty shootout disappointment after their Round of 16 exit on penalties in 2018.
Switzerland, meanwhile, advance to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years and will now face defending champions Argentina in Kansas City.
Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Live
Fans in India can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE with commentary in Malayalam, Hindi, English, and Bangla exclusively on ZEE5.
Related Story: Argentina will face Switzerland in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter-final on Sunday, 12 July 2026 at 06:30 AM IST. The match will be streamed live on ZEE5 with Malayalam commentary, along with Hindi, English, and Bangla options. Switzerland reached the quarter-finals after beating Colombia on penalties, while Argentina entered the last eight after a thrilling win over Egypt.
