2026 World Cup: Messi gets favourable outcome as Switzerland book Argentina quarterfinal with win over Colombia
Switzerland pulled off penalty heroics to overcome Colombia and secure a place against Argentina in the quarterfinal
Switzerland overcame a dogged Colombia side 4-3 on penalties to advance to the quarter final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After a drab 0-0 draw in full time and extra time, the Swiss held their nerve to see off Colombia in the shootout, ensuring that Lionel Messi’s Argentina will avoid facing a top 15 side in the FIFA rankings until at least the semifinal of the competition.
Switzerland vs Colombia: How it happened
Colombia came closest in the first half when Gustavo Puerta’s curling effort from 18 yards forced Gregor Kobel into a superb diving save, while Camilo Vargas denied Fabian Rieder at the other end with a sharp stop from a tight angle.
Dan Ndoye almost won it in stoppage time after bursting into the box, only to drag his shot narrowly wide of the far post.
Extra time produced even more drama as Colombia defender Jhon Lucumi rose highest from a corner but saw his powerful header crash against the crossbar. The near miss sparked an end-to-end finish, though both defences stood firm.
Switzerland overcame a major setback after losing breakout star Johan Manzambi to a knee injury before kick-off. Despite his absence, the Swiss finally ended their long-standing round-of-16 curse, progressing beyond this stage for the first time since reaching only their fourth World Cup quarter-final.
Their victory also eased the pain of their Euro 2024 penalty shootout exit to England. Goalkeeper Camilo Vargas converted the decisive spot-kick, sparking wild celebrations, despite Colombian fans overwhelmingly dominating the atmosphere at BC Place.
Switzerland will now face Argentina in the quarter-finals after the South Americans’ dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt.