Switzerland achieved a historic milestone by reaching the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in 72 years, defeating Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw in both regular and extra time, to successfully advance in the tournament.
According to football statistics network Opta, Switzerland's last appearance in a World Cup quarter-final dated back to the 1954 edition, which the country hosted on home soil, bringing an end to a long wait spanning more than seven decades.
The match, held at BC Place stadium in Vancouver, Canada, was an evenly contested affair with few clear chances created over 120 minutes, before the penalty shootout settled the tie in Switzerland's favour, with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel excelling and saving one of the decisive spot-kicks, while Ruben Vargas converted the final penalty.
Switzerland completed the line-up of teams advancing to the quarter-finals, setting up a meeting with title holders Argentina, who reached this stage following their thrilling victory over Egypt.