Switzerland secured a historic spot in the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954, defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the round of 16. Their next challenge will be against reigning champions Argentina at Arrowhead Stadium on 11/7.

Coach Ruben Vargas (in black vest) celebrates with Swiss players after defeating Colombia in the World Cup 2026 round of 16 at BC Place, Vancouver, Canada on 7/7. Photo: Reuters

Coach Ruben Vargas (in black vest) celebrates with Swiss players after defeating Colombia in the World Cup 2026 round of 16 at BC Place, Vancouver, Canada on 7/7. Photo: Reuters

Historically, Switzerland has a difficult record against Argentina, with seven previous encounters since 1966 resulting in two draws and five losses. Their most recent meeting was in the round of 16 of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where Switzerland held Argentina to a draw in regular time but ultimately lost 0-1 in extra time due due to a goal from Angel Di Maria in the 118th minute. The first match between the two teams was in the 1966 World Cup group stage, with Switzerland losing 0-2. The remaining five matches were friendlies, where Switzerland lost three and drew two.

Despite this daunting history, Yakin expressed confidence in Switzerland's chances. The 51-year-old coach acknowledged Argentina's strength throughout the tournament but asserted that they are not an unbeatable team. "Facing the reigning champions is a special opportunity," he said after the victory over Colombia. "Based on what we've seen in the tournament, Argentina is not invincible".

The Swiss coach also noted similarities between Colombia's playing style and Argentina's. "We understand the mentality of South American teams," he explained. "Every match is very important, and Switzerland came to the World Cup to compete fairly against any opponent".

Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, instrumental in Switzerland reaching the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in 72 years, shared his excitement. During the penalty shootout against Colombia, the Dortmund player saved a shot from Cucho Hernandez, paving the way for Ruben Vargas to convert the decisive penalty, securing a 4-3 victory for Switzerland.

"It's hard to describe how significant this achievement is for our team and our country," Kobel stated. "For a small nation like Switzerland to reach the top 8 teams in the world in the planet's most popular sport is incredible".

Kobel, making his World Cup debut, expressed happiness for his teammates, fans, and everyone who has supported the team over the years. The 28-year-old goalkeeper emphasized his consistent focus throughout the penalty shootout and his trust in both his own abilities and those of his teammates. "I didn't have too many emotional fluctuations during the shootout," he recounted. "But that save was a pivotal moment. Witnessing my teammates constantly encouraging and standing together was very special".

Manuel Akanji missed a penalty against Colombia. Photo: AP

Manuel Akanji missed a penalty against Colombia. Photo: AP

Conversely, Manuel Akanji described his missed penalty as a "disaster," jokingly stating he would no longer take responsibility for penalty kicks for the Swiss national team. "From now on, I'll let someone else take them. Whoever wants to kick, just take it," the former Manchester City defender said with a laugh.

This was Akanji's third penalty miss for the national team in shootouts. The 30-year-old center-back previously missed in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals, when Switzerland drew 1-1 with Spain in regular time but lost 1-3 in the shootout. In the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, Akanji's shot was saved by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, leading to Switzerland's elimination by England. However, his miss against Colombia did not prove costly for Switzerland. Akanji affirmed Switzerland's readiness for their biggest challenge yet, facing Lionel Messi's Argentina in the quarter-finals: "They are the reigning world champions. There probably isn't a bigger quarter-final than this. Each round will get tougher, but I believe the whole team is ready".

Hong Duy (according to La Nacion, Globo)