Switzerland coach Yakin eyes Argentina after historic win: 'Not invincible'

Switzerland's coach Murat Yakin declared his team is now among the world's elite after a penalty shootout victory over Colombia, a historic achievement for the nation.

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Our work paid off.

"Our work paid off," Yakin said, noting Switzerland's steady improvement throughout the tournament with a clear goal: to become the best Swiss team ever at a World Cup. He stressed the team's determination to match the physical intensity of South American opponents.

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We wanted to be the best Swiss team that has ever participated in a World Cup, and we managed to make history.

Yakin described the win against Colombia as a collective triumph in a demanding, open match. He asserted that Switzerland was prepared to compete fiercely and act as a unified, well-organized team. Responding to the Colombian coach's claim that his team deserved more, Yakin stated the match was balanced, with Switzerland not being inferior.

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The opponent was not necessarily superior. In fact, it was quite even.

"Ultimately, whether it was deserved or not, we are the ones advancing to the quarterfinals, and that's what matters," Yakin added. He also detailed how his staff analyzed Colombia's strengths, particularly focusing on controlling Luis Díaz through defensive support and solid team structure. The coach also mentioned an injury to Johan Manzambi that required a last-minute plan adjustment, though the exact extent of the injury remains unclear.

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Ultimately, whether it was deserved or not, we are the ones advancing to the quarterfinals, and that's what matters.