FIFA WC 2026: Switzerland beats Colombia on penalties to reach first quarterfinal since 1954

Switzerland reached the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954 after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw. Ruben Vargas scored the decisive penalty as the Swiss set up a last-eight clash with Argentina.

Vancouver: Switzerland have qualified for the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954 after edging Colombia on penalties 4-3 following a gritty goalless draw.

Ruben Vargas fired home the winning kick to send the Swiss to their first quarter-final in over seven decades. Switzerland will take on Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 last eight.

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“I didn’t even know if I would be able to play. I’m just grateful that I could help the team. I felt very confident before the penalty. The fact that I was even able to convert the decisive attempt is just awesome,” Vargas said.

Murat Yakin’s side had been dealt a major pre-match blow with the news that Johan Manzambi, the team’s breakout star, had been ruled out with a knee injury. The absence of the livewire attacker was certainly felt in a forgettable first half, which Colombia dominated without creating any clear-cut chances, FIFA reports.