Switzerland edge Colombia on penalties to reach first World Cup quarter-final since 1954
Switzerland defeated Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in Vancouver, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years and setting up a clash with holders Argentina.
Match of few chances
The round of 16 clash at BC Place in Vancouver was a tense, tactical affair with both sides cancelling each other out over 120 minutes. Colombia, backed by a sea of yellow shirts, started brightly and Gustavo Puerta forced a superb diving save from Gregor Kobel in the 21st minute. Switzerland responded through Fabian Rieder, whose effort was parried by Camilo Vargas. The Swiss were dealt a blow before kick-off when breakout star Johan Manzambi was ruled out with a knee contusion.
The second half and extra time brought more near misses. Dan Ndoye dragged a low shot just wide in stoppage time, and Jhon Lucumí's header crashed against the crossbar. Jaminton Campaz then missed a golden one-on-one chance, curling over the bar with only Kobel to beat.
- Gustavo Puerta's curling shot from 18 yards saved by Gregor Kobel.
- Fabian Rieder's blast punched away by Camilo Vargas.
- Granit Xhaka clips a shot over the crossbar from close range.
- Dan Ndoye drags a low shot just wide of the far post.
- Jhon Lucumí's header crashes against the crossbar from a corner.
- Jaminton Campaz blazes over with only Kobel to beat.
- Davinson Sánchez hits crossbar; Kobel saves Cucho Hernández; Ruben Vargas scores winner.
Penalty drama
With the deadlock unbroken, the match went to a shootout. Colombia's Davinson Sánchez thundered his penalty against the crossbar, and Kobel saved Juan Camilo "Cucho" Hernández's attempt. Switzerland's Manuel Akanji also missed, firing over, but Ruben Vargas calmly slotted home the decisive kick to send the Swiss through.
Now we will play against the reigning champion. This is a unique opportunity for us. However, it was seen that Argentina is not invincible.
Colombia's attacking woes
Colombia exit the tournament having scored only five goals from 69 shots across six matches. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, the South Americans lacked a cutting edge. Luis Díaz, their star winger, managed just one goal in the entire World Cup, while playmaker James Rodríguez failed to register a goal or assist. Coach Nestor Lorenzo refused to blame his players.
There is nothing to reproach, simply that sometimes the ball goes in and sometimes it doesn't. This World Cup has shown an impressive quality of goalkeepers.
- Total shots
- 69
- Goals
- 5
What's next
Switzerland will face defending champions Argentina in the quarter-finals on Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Argentina advanced after a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Egypt, with Lionel Messi scoring and assisting. The Swiss, in their first last-eight appearance since hosting the tournament in 1954, will aim to continue their resilient run against the title holders.
