A Match of Few Clear Chances
Neither side could find a breakthrough across 120 minutes in what proved a cagey, tactically disciplined encounter. Switzerland held 52 percent possession but managed only two shots on target, while Colombia also put just two efforts on frame. The expected goals tally reflected the lack of cutting-edge quality in the final third — 0.30 for Switzerland and 0.40 for Colombia. nytimes.com espn.com cbssports.com
Fabian Rieder was Switzerland’s most threatening attacker with three shots, while Gustavo Puerta offered Colombia’s best moments in open play. Dan Ndoye came closest to settling the contest in the 91st minute when Manuel Akanji played him through, but the forward dragged his effort across the face of goal. espn.com
Shootout Drama in Vancouver
With no goals forthcoming after extra time, the match went to a penalty shootout where Switzerland prevailed 4-3. Granit Xhaka and Zeki Amdouni both converted for Switzerland, while Akanji missed. For Colombia, Jaminton Campaz scored early in the shootout. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel proved the hero for the Swiss, who had won just one of their previous six penalty shootouts heading into the contest. en.as.com facebook.com espn.co.uk facebook.com sportsnet.ca
The result marks Switzerland’s first appearance in the World Cup quarter-finals since hosting the tournament in 1954. Colombia, who had entered the match unbeaten in the tournament following group-stage victories over Uzbekistan and DR Congo and a draw with Portugal, exited having failed to score in their final two matches. sportsnet.ca facebook.com espn.com
Switzerland now face Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who earlier on Tuesday came from behind to beat Egypt 3-2 in the day’s other Round of 16 tie. foxsports.com nbcnews.com
