Switzerland make history: first World Cup quarter-final in 72 years

Switzerland have ended a 72‑year wait by reaching the World Cup quarter-finals, defeating Colombia on penalties after a gruelling, hard-fought contest. Not since 1954, when the tournament was played on home soil, had the Swiss advanced this far, making their achievement in Canada a landmark moment for a team long stuck at the last‑16 barrier. Over the past two decades, Switzerland had repeatedly fallen at that stage, 2006, 2014, 2018 and 2022, despite consistent qualification and steady growth.

This time, however, Murat Yakin’s side showed maturity, defensive organisation and resilience, conceding only three goals in the tournament. The round‑of‑16 clash finished 0-0 after 120 tense minutes, with Gregor Kobel saving Cucho Hernández’s penalty and Davinson Sánchez striking the bar. Manuel Akanji’s miss proved harmless, as Ruben Vargas converted the decisive kick to seal a historic 4-3 shoot-out win. Switzerland now prepare for a quarter-final showdown with Argentina, carrying renewed belief and ambition.