With Almost Eerie Dominance: Switzerland Wins First World Cup Knockout Match Since 1938

Switzerland achieved a historic victory in the World Cup knockout stage, defeating Algeria 2-0 to secure their first win in this phase of the tournament since 1938. The win was largely orchestrated by the electrifying performance of 20-year-old Johan Manzambi, who has become the team's standout player.

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He sprinted in the style of a great hurdler, danced past all opponents and passed from the goal line to Breel Embolo.

Manzambi set up the opening goal in the 10th minute with a dazzling run, outpacing Algerian defenders before passing to Breel Embolo for an easy finish. While Embolo is credited with the goal, Manzambi's contribution was estimated at around 95 percent. This decisive play eased the initial nervousness of the Swiss team against a physically robust Algerian side.

Algeria, ranked 29th by FIFA, boasts talented players like Ibrahim Maza and veteran Riyad Mahrez. However, they lacked a player with Manzambi's explosive pace and playmaking ability. Manzambi's speed proved to be an insurmountable challenge for the Algerian defense, and their own offensive players failed to create similar moments of surprise against Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

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Manzambi's share must have been around 95 percent.

This marks the third consecutive match where Manzambi has been the difference-maker for Switzerland. He previously scored twice in a 4-1 win against Bosnia and contributed a goal and an assist in a 2-1 victory over Canada. His exceptional performances are also generating significant financial interest, with SC Freiburg's finance director Oliver Leki anticipating a substantial profit from a future transfer, potentially surpassing the club's previous record sales.

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The number 29 in the FIFA world rankings has some spectacular footballers in its ranks. Ibrahim Maza of Bayer Leverkusen, the now 35-year-old, long-time Premier League professional Riyad Mahrez, for whom Manchester City paid almost 70 million euros in transfer fees in 2018. But the Algerians currently don't have a Manzambi.