On July 7, Switzerland defeated the Colombia team to feature in the quarterfinals of a World Cup for the first time in 72 years.
Switzerland overcame Colombia with a score of 4-3 on penalties, after a tense 0-0 draw over 120 minutes in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup at BC Place stadium. This is the first time in history that this national team features in the round of the 8 strongest teams at a World Cup not hosted on home turf.
The last time Switzerland reached the World Cup quarterfinals was in the 1954 tournament. That was when they played the role of host nation. Back then, Switzerland suffered a 5-7 defeat against the Austria team. At this year’s World Cup, the challenge for Switzerland in the quarterfinals is the defending champions Argentina.
After 72 consecutive years of missing out on the round of the 8 strongest teams, “La Nati” finally broke the jinx with a performance full of bravery against Colombia. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel continuously made important saves to help Switzerland avoid defeat during 120 tense minutes.
Entering the nerve-wracking penalty shootout, drama occurred successively. Davinson Sanchez failed to convert Colombia’s first kick as he sent the ball striking the crossbar. However, Manuel Akanji also failed to capitalize on the advantage by blasting his shot over the bar, bringing both teams back to a balanced state.
Right at the decisive moment, Kobel once again became the hero by successfully blocking Cucho Hernandez’s shot. Ruben Vargas then coolly defeated Camilo Vargas in the decisive kick, sealing the 4-3 victory for Switzerland.
