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Switzerland Crush Colombia, Breaks Penalty Curse

ESPN Soccer •
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Switzerland secured a 4‑3 shootout victory over Colombia after a 0‑0 draw in Vancouver, sending the Swiss BBQ into the World Cup quarterfinals. Substitute Rubén Vargas converted the decisive penalty, while goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made a heroic stop against Cucho Hernández. The win ends Switzerland’s 20‑year streak of missing World Cup shootouts, with the last success coming in 2006 against Ukraine.

Manager Murat Yakin praised the squad’s resilience, noting the team’s “incredible fight” and “cleverness” that broke the curse. Defender Manuel Akanji admitted a last‑minute misstep, but the collective effort kept Switzerland in the match.

The victory sets upsquare a quarterfinal clash with reigning champions Argentina on July 11 at Arrowhead Stadium мал Kansas City. Captain Granit Xhaka said the hunger grows, especially with Lionel Messi on the field. The Swiss now face a high‑stakes test that could define their World Cup legacy.

The result also signals a turning point for Switzerland’s fortunes in major tournaments, as they reach the top eight in three of their last four events.