Switzerland defeats Colombia in penalty shootout

Switzerland knocked out Colombia on penalties, winning 4-3, to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. The match, held on July 7, 2026, at BC Place in Vancouver, ended in a tense 0-0 draw after extra time, leading to the shootout where Ruben Vargas scored the deciding penalty.

The Swiss team began celebrating as Colombian players, including Davinson Sánchez and Cucho Hernández, looked on in despair after missing key penalties. Switzerland's victory came after a match that was described by coach Murat Yakin as a ‘dream’ and was carried out according to their tactical plan. The game itself, however, was much more of a chess match than a traditional football contest, with both teams searching for a decisive opening without a clear finishing touch.

Possession was evenly divided throughout the match, and both teams had moments where they controlled play, yet neither managed to convert their opportunities into goals. Colombia's manager, Néstor Lorenzo, acknowledged the tactical nature of the contest, stating, "Of course, we should have scored a goal."

Opportunities for both teams notably included a promising shot from Colombia's Gustavo Puerta that was saved by Switzerland's Gregor Kobel and a chance for Swiss player Fabian Rieder that was thwarted by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas. As the match progressed, Colombia had a number of chances, including a crucial miss from Jaminton Campaz late in regulation.

Switzerland's breakout star Johan Manzambi was absent from the match due to a knee injury sustained in training, a loss Yakin noted impacted their game plan significantly.

The weather played a role in the contest, with humid conditions at BC Place contributing to the atmosphere where 52,497 fans attended, predominantly supporting Colombia, who wore their national colors of yellow.

Despite the crowd's support, Colombia struggled to find the back of the net, with a range of missed chances and a late effort from Jhon Lucumí hitting the crossbar during extra time.

Kobel made pivotal saves, including a critical stop on a penalty shot from Hernández during the shootouts, ensuring a historic result for Switzerland. After the match, Yakin was enthusiastic about the victory, stating, "We are going to celebrate with the entire staff and the entire nation. This is a very unique opportunity for us." Meanwhile, Lorenzo lamented the missed opportunities that cost Colombia the match.