Kobel the hero as Switzerland knock out Colombia on penalties

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·7 juillet 2026

Kobel the hero as Switzerland knock out Colombia on penalties

Switzerland reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years after overcoming Colombia on penalties following a hard-fought goalless draw in Vancouver.

With influential midfielder Johan Manzambi unavailable, the Swiss were forced to dig deep against a Colombia side that created the better chances over the course of the match.

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Gregor Kobel proved crucial in the opening half, producing an outstanding save to keep out Gustavo Puerta's curling effort, while Camilo Vargas matched him at the other end with important stops to deny Fabian Rieder and Dan Ndoye.

The contest remained finely balanced after the break, with both defences standing firm. Colombia came closest to finding a breakthrough in extra time when Jhon Lucumí's powerful header crashed against the crossbar, before substitute Jaminton Campaz squandered a golden opportunity by firing over from close range after capitalising on a defensive mistake.

With neither side able to find a winner, penalties were required to separate them. Davinson Sánchez missed Colombia's opening spot-kick before Manuel Akanji also failed to convert for Switzerland. Kobel then emerged as the hero by saving Cucho Hernández's effort, leaving Ruben Vargas with the chance to seal victory. The winger calmly converted the decisive penalty, sending Switzerland into the last eight, where they will face reigning world champions Argentina.