Switzerland Survive Colombia Scare to Reach First World Cup Quarter-final Since 1954

2026 FIFA World Cup – Round of 16
July 7, 2026 | BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Switzerland booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years after defeating Colombia 4-3 on penalties following a tense 0-0 draw that lasted the full 120 minutes. In front of a passionate, predominantly Colombian crowd at BC Place, Murat Yakin's side showed remarkable discipline before holding their nerve in the decisive shootout.

A Tactical Battle

Neither nation managed to find a breakthrough during regular time as both defensive units produced outstanding performances. Colombia enjoyed slightly more possession and threatened through Gustavo Puerta, Luis Suárez, and Jaminton Campaz, while Switzerland relied on organized defending and quick counterattacks led by Granit Xhaka and Dan Ndoye.

Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel repeatedly came to his country's rescue with several crucial saves, keeping Colombia scoreless despite increasing pressure throughout extra time.

Drama in Extra Time

Colombia came closest to winning before penalties when Jhon Lucumí headed against the crossbar, while Jaminton Campaz squandered the best opportunity of the match late in extra time by firing over from close range.

Switzerland remained composed despite creating very few clear-cut chances, seemingly content to take their chances from the penalty spot.

Penalty Shootout Decides It

The shootout produced plenty of drama. Switzerland recovered from Manuel Akanji's miss after Gregor Kobel denied Cucho Hernández with a brilliant save. Ruben Vargas then stepped up to convert the winning penalty, sending the Swiss players into wild celebrations while Colombian hearts were broken.

Final Score:
Switzerland 0-0 Colombia
Switzerland win 4-3 on penalties

Historic Achievement

The victory sends Switzerland into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since the 1954 tournament, ending decades of knockout-stage disappointment. After suffering Round of 16 exits in recent World Cups, the Swiss finally broke through with one of the biggest wins in modern national team history.

Manager Murat Yakin praised his team's resilience and the impact of his substitutes, particularly Ruben Vargas, whose winning penalty sealed a famous victory.

Colombia Exit with Pride

Despite elimination, Colombia can leave Canada with their heads held high after another impressive tournament. Néstor Lorenzo's side defended well throughout the competition and came within inches of reaching only their second-ever World Cup quarter-final.

Ultimately, missed opportunities during extra time and two failed penalties proved costly against a disciplined Swiss side that never lost belief.