Switzerland progressed to the World Cup quarterfinals by edging Colombia on penalties, setting up a showdown with defending champions Argentina.
Published On 7 Jul 2026
Switzerland triumphed 4–3 on penalties following a goalless draw to advance into the quarterfinals, where they will face defending champions Argentina.
After missing several spot‑kicks, Switzerland’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel saved Cucho Hernández’s attempt, and Ruben Vargas converted the decisive penalty.
Backed once more by a sea of fans in Vancouver, Colombia had conceded only once in their previous four matches, while Switzerland remained stout defensively.
In the 21st minute, Kobel produced a spectacular dive to deny Gustavo Puerta’s curling shot from the edge of the penalty area.
Immediately after the first hydration break, Switzerland increased their tempo; Camilo Vargas repelled a strike from Fabian Rieder and later stopped Dan Ndoye.
The half‑time score remained 0‑0, as two evenly matched sides found it hard to create decisive chances.
Switzerland pressed in the second half, yet Colombia also threatened, with Luis Suárez blazing a chance wide.
Both managers introduced several substitutes, but the changes failed to unlock either defense, leaving Colombia’s winger Luis Díaz largely ineffective.
In added time, Dan Ndoye forced a shot wide, and the game ended 0‑0 after 90 minutes.
The match finally came alive in the first period of extra time.
Colombia’s Jhon Lucumi struck a header against the crossbar from a corner in the ninth minute, and Kobel saved a fierce drive from Jaminton Campaz as Colombia pressed for a goal.
At the other end, Camilo Vargas dived to his left to palm away a close‑range effort from substitute Zeki Amdouni.
With about five minutes remaining, Jaminton Campaz spurned a glorious chance to win the match.
As no further goals were scored, the contest progressed to a penalty shoot‑out.
Switzerland will meet Argentina in Kansas City on Saturday, after Lionel Messi’s side advanced with a 3–2 victory over Egypt in Atlanta.
Switzerland’s last appearance in the quarterfinals dates back to the 1954 tournament, which they hosted.
