Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-08 02:59:00.
Switzerland’s manager Murat Yakin expressed his joy at breaking the nation’s penalty “curse” after defeating Colombia in a dramatic shootout on July 7, 2026, to advance to the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In a match held in Vancouver, British Columbia, substitute Rubén Vargas scored the decisive penalty following a crucial save from Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. This important moment came after Cucho Hernández’s effort was denied and misses from both Colombia’s Davinson Sánchez and Switzerland’s Manuel Akanji earlier in the shootout.
This victory marks Switzerland’s first shootout win in World Cup history; their only previous attempt resulted in a loss to Ukraine in 2006. Additionally, Switzerland had struggled with shootouts, winning only one out of their last six in all competitions, which was against France at Euro 2020.
“You’re kind of in the flow and don’t quite know what to take in,” Yakin told Swiss broadcaster SRF after the match. “It took an incredible fight, along with cleverness and patience. Finally breaking the curse in the penalty shootout is a monumental achievement. I’m incredibly happy for the players, the staff, and all the fans at home.”
Reflecting on his penalty miss, defender Akanji said, “I told Muri that was the last penalty I’d ever take. It was disastrous. I changed my mind at the last moment and slipped, sending the ball over the goal.” He added, “I’m proud of how the team reacted, especially defensively, as we were compact.”
Switzerland’s achievement means they have reached the quarterfinals in three of their last four major tournaments, although they failed to do so in the 2022 World Cup, where they exited in the round of 16.
The victory sets up a thrilling encounter against reigning champions Argentina at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, on Saturday, where they will face Lionel Messi.
Captain Granit Xhaka emphasized the team’s ambition, stating, “Goal No. 1 has been achieved, but the hunger is even greater now. We are prepared for the big challenge ahead.”
FAQs
What was the significance of Switzerland’s victory over Colombia?
It marked Switzerland’s first penalty shootout win in World Cup history, advancing them to the quarterfinals.
Who will Switzerland face next in the tournament?
They will play against reigning champions Argentina in the quarterfinals at Arrowhead Stadium.
Key Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-08 02:59:00
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Tags: #Switzerland #overcome #penalty #curse #oust #Colombia #World #Cup
Tags: #Switzerland #overcome #penalty #curse #oust #Colombia #World #Cup
