Switzerland survive Colombia shoot-out to set up World Cup quarter-final against Argentina

Switzerland reached their first World Cup quarter-final since 1954 by defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Tuesday, setting up a last-eight clash with defending champions Argentina.

Ruben Vargas, who had scored twice in the tournament already, came off the bench in stoppage time of regulation and stepped up to convert the decisive spot-kick. Colombia’s hopes were undone by Davinson Sanchez, whose attempt struck the crossbar, and Cucho Hernandez, whose penalty was saved by Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

The Swiss had not advanced beyond the round of 16 at any of the past three World Cups, where the field was limited to 32 teams, and had not reached the quarter-finals since they hosted the tournament 71 years ago. Tuesday’s achievement came at a cost, however — young midfielder Johan Manzambi, one of the breakout stars of the tournament with three goals, was absent after picking up an injury in training on Monday. Luca Jaquez and Michel Aebischer were also unavailable.

The match was tightly contested throughout, with Switzerland’s organised defensive structure absorbing a more attack-minded Colombia side. Gustavo Puerta tested Kobel from distance in the 21st minute, while Fabian Reider came closest for the Swiss in the 30th, only for Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas to punch clear. Reider also curled a free kick into the side netting in the 52nd minute.

Extra time produced the clearest chance of the entire 120 minutes when Jhon Lucumi’s header cannoned off the crossbar, but neither side could find a winner and the match went to penalties.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino was in attendance at a stadium packed overwhelmingly with Colombia supporters. It was a painful exit for a Colombian side that had failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and had not reached the quarter-finals since the 2014 tournament in Brazil, where they beat Uruguay before losing to the hosts.

Switzerland will now face Argentina on Saturday in Kansas City. Earlier on Tuesday, Lionel Messi’s side survived a scare before defeating Egypt 3-2 to advance.