Switzerland edge Colombia on penalties to reach first World Cup quarter-final since 1954

Switzerland has advanced to their first World Cup quarter-final in nearly 70 years, defeating Colombia 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a goalless 120 minutes. The victory at BC Place in Vancouver sends the Swiss into a clash with defending champions Argentina.

The shootout was decided when Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel saved Cucho Hernandez's penalty. Although Manuel Akanji missed for Switzerland, Ruben Vargas confidently converted the decisive spot-kick into the bottom corner. "It is very difficult for me to realise what we achieved today," Vargas said after the match. "I’m grateful for this moment. It was an amazing match for me. For 120 minutes we gave it all on the pitch. We faced a strong opponent, but now we made history... It was amazing that I could score the decisive penalty."

It was a heartbreaking exit for Colombia, who were aiming to reach the quarterfinals for only the second time in their history. Despite creating the best chance of the first half through Gustavo Puerta, whose shot forced a superb save from Kobel, they could not find the net. Switzerland also had opportunities, with Fabian Rieder's effort saved by Colombia's Camilo Vargas and Dan Ndoye narrowly missing a winner in the 91st minute.

Colombia came close in extra time when Jhon Lucumi's header struck the crossbar, sparking a frantic final spell. Switzerland, competing in their sixth successive World Cup, have a history of reaching the round of 16 but struggling to advance. This win finally broke that pattern, erasing the disappointment of previous tournaments and their Euro 2024 quarter-final penalty loss to England. The celebrations were jubilant as the entire Swiss squad rushed to Vargas after his winning penalty.

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It is very difficult for me to realise what we achieved today. I’m grateful for this moment. It was an amazing match for me. For 120 minutes we gave it all on the pitch. We faced a strong opponent, but now we made history... It was amazing that I could score the decisive penalty.