Switzerland advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals by defeating Colombia in a penalty shootout following a 0-0 draw after extra time at BC Place in Vancouver on July 7, 2026.
The victory broke a 72-year barrier for the Swiss national team, which had previously lost five of its last six penalty shootouts in major tournaments.
Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made a crucial save against Colombia's Cucho Hernandez, allowing Ruben Vargas to score the decisive penalty past Camilo Vargas to secure the win.
Yakin's Touchline Check
Switzerland coach Murat Yakin managed the high-pressure moments just before the shootout by checking on his players individually on the touchline before the team broke out into an energized huddle.
"You're good to go?" asked Yakin, according to the New York Times report detailing his interactions with individual players.
The Swiss squad responded with nods, later generating a massive surge of energy and shouts before the penalty kicks commenced.
"And you?" Yakin asked another player while confirming his lineup before the kicks began.
Midfielder Granit Xhaka successfully converted Switzerland's first penalty to stabilize the team amid loud whistling from the predominantly Colombian crowd inside the stadium.
"You have to be perfect to beat Gregor," said winger Dan Ndoye, praising the impact of his goalkeeper.
Ndoye noted that the team's penalty order had been decided well in advance of the whistle, though final checks allowed players to voice any late doubts.
"Everyone said if he was feeling it or not," Ndoye said regarding the pre-shootout communication.
Colombia missed opportunities during extra time when Jhon Lucumi hit the crossbar and Jaminton Campaz sent a shot over the net following a weak clearance.
"There were important elements we talked through," said head coach Murat Yakin after the match.
Swiss defender Manuel Akanji missed Switzerland's third penalty by sending the ball over the crossbar, though Kobel's subsequent save minimized the damage.
"I don't remember everything that was said," admitted a relieved Manuel Akanji after the victory.
The defender noted that the heavy volume of motivational speeches throughout the day helped the squad maintain belief.
"We had a lot of speeches today, to encourage each other. I guess what we did worked," Akanji said.
With this victory, Switzerland moves into the round of eight, where they are scheduled to face Lionel Messi and Argentina.
