Switzerland Reach World Cup Quarterfinals After Shootout Win

Switzerland defeated Colombia on penalties to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals for the first time since 1954.

Switzerland secured a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Colombia after a tense goalless draw lasted 120 minutes on Tuesday. The result sent Switzerland into the World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, where they will face defending champions Argentina.

The deciding moment came during the penalty shootout when Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel saved Cucho Hernández’s effort. Colombia had already suffered a setback when Davinson Sanchez struck the crossbar with his penalty, giving Switzerland the advantage.

Switzerland also missed one opportunity when Manuel Akanji fired his penalty over the goal. However, Ruben Vargas calmly converted the decisive kick, placing the ball into the bottom corner and securing a historic victory for his team.

The win marks a major achievement for Switzerland football, as the team returns to the quarterfinal stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in more than seven decades. The result also keeps their hopes alive as they prepare to face Argentina in the next round.

For Colombia, the defeat brought a painful end to their campaign. The South American side was hoping to reach the quarterfinals for only the second time in its history, following its previous appearance at the stage during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The match showed the fine margins of knockout football, with both teams unable to find a breakthrough during open play before penalties decided their fate. Switzerland now turn their attention to a challenging clash against the reigning champions as they aim to continue their impressive tournament run.

Can Switzerland overcome Argentina and create another memorable moment at the FIFA World Cup 2026?