Vancouver Stadium hosted its final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Switzerland faced Colombia in a tense knockout encounter. After a goalless draw over 120 minutes, Switzerland secured a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout to advance to the next round.
The first clear chance of the match arrived in the 21st minute when Gustavo Puerta’s impressive strike forced Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel into a spectacular diving save. Switzerland grew into the game after the break in the first half, with Dan Ndoye coming close in the 31st minute, only for Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas to deny him. A physical and evenly contested opening 45 minutes ended without goals.
Switzerland had the first major opportunity after halftime when Fabian Rieder’s free kick in the 53rd minute struck the back of the net from the outside. The match became increasingly intense and physical, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. Ndoye’s late effort in stoppage time was the final real opportunity before the game moved into extra time.
Colombia pushed forward during the additional 30 minutes in search of a decisive goal. Jhon Lucumí’s header in the 99th minute hit the post, while Jhon Arias’ strike two minutes later was brilliantly saved by Kobel. Switzerland responded through substitute Zeki Amdouni, whose chance was stopped by Vargas, while Granit Xhaka fired narrowly over the bar in the 114th minute.
With neither side able to find a breakthrough after 120 minutes, the winner was decided from the penalty spot. Switzerland held their nerve to claim a 4-3 shootout victory and book their place in the next round.
Switzerland will face Argentina on 11th July at Kansas City Stadium, with the winner advancing to the World Cup semi-finals.
