Switzerland leads Algeria 1-0 at halftime in their World Cup knockout clash, with Breel Embolo scoring the decisive goal just before the break. Referee Yael Falcón Pérez oversaw a first half where Switzerland dominated quality despite trailing possession 40.8% to 59.2%. Young talent Manzambi sparked the move with a brilliant 50-yard run before squaring for Embolo to tap home.

The goal came in the 46th minute after Algeria's Riyad Mahrez tested Switzerland keeper Kobel moments earlier. Switzerland's expected goals of 1.24 dwarfed Algeria's 0.53, reflecting their superior finishing. Each side managed two shots on target, but Switzerland's clinical edge proved the difference. Both teams struggled with accuracy, completing 178 and 277 passes respectively at under 90% rates.

Opta's supercomputer rates Switzerland's chances of advancing at 77.3%, while Algeria faces long odds of just 4.9% to recover. A draw after 90 minutes sits at 17.8%. Switzerland targets their first World Cup knockout victory since 1938, needing to hold this narrow lead against a desperate Algerian side pushing for their maiden knockout win.

Algeria's manager Petkovic appeared frustrated with his team's first-half display and will demand more clinical finishing after the restart. Switzerland's defense held firm despite conceding more possession, and they'll look to extend their advantage in the second half.