Switzerland returns to World Cup quarterfinals after 72 years; all pairs confirmed
Switzerland defeated Colombia on penalties to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, completing the last eight lineup. Argentina now knows its next opponent.
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The Swiss national football team advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, ending a 72-year drought. In the round of 16 match held in Vancouver, Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.
Neither side managed to score in regular or extra time. Colombia came closest in the 99th minute when John Lucumi headed a Juan Quintero corner onto the crossbar. Later, Haminton Campas had two chances: one saved by Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, and another blasted over from close range.
In the shootout, Quintero and Granit Xhaka converted (1-1). Davinson Sanchez hit the post, and Zeki Amdouni made it 2-1 Switzerland. Campas leveled, but Manuel Akanji shot over (2-2). Kobel saved Cucho Hernandez's spot kick, and Cedric Itten put Switzerland ahead 3-2. After Luis Diaz scored, Ruben Vargas sealed the win at 4-3.
This is the first 48-team World Cup, hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Group winners and runners-up, plus eight best third-placed teams, reached the knockout stage. With Switzerland's victory, all quarterfinal pairings are known, including Argentina's opponent.
