World Cup: Freiburg’s Manzambi at the double as Switzerland register first victory | OneFootball

With plenty of talent from Germany’s top two divisions on display, it was the Swiss who ultimately came out on top, thanks largely to a stunning second-half cameo from SC Freiburg youngster Johan Manzambi, who struck twice after coming off the bench.

The first half failed to ignite, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Switzerland nevertheless looked the more likely side to break the deadlock, controlling possession and territory, while Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel was rarely troubled at the other end. Despite their dominance, Murat Yakin’s men were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval.

The contest continued at a similar tempo after the restart until the introduction of Manzambi changed everything. Just minutes after entering the fray, the Freiburg star made an immediate impact. A cross from Ruben Vargas was only partially cleared into his path, allowing the youngster to unleash a superb first-time volley beyond St. Pauli goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj to put Switzerland 1-0 ahead with his very first touch of the game.

Bosnia & Herzegovina’s task became even more difficult when they were reduced to ten men shortly afterwards. Switzerland quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage, with former Augsburg man Vargas adding a second goal to put the result beyond serious doubt.

There was still time for Manzambi to complete a dream evening. Vargas once again turned provider, driving to the byline before squaring for the Freiburg man, who calmly slotted home from close range to make it 3-0 and cap a remarkable substitute appearance.

Bosnia & Herzegovina did manage a late consolation through Ermin Mahmić, but it proved little more than a footnote on a night that belonged to Switzerland who ran away with it even further through a Granit Xhaka penalty to ensure the scoreline finished 4-1. The victory leaves Yakin’s side firmly in contention for top spot in Group B ahead of next Wednesday’s clash with co-hosts Canada in Vancouver.