By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Switzerland stunned Colombia on Tuesday to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954, winning 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw through 120 minutes in Vancouver.
It was a tense and tactical Round of 16 match with very few clear chances. Colombia came closest in normal time when Gustavo Puerta forced a superb save from Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, and in extra time Jhon Lucumi headed against the crossbar. Switzerland also had their moments as Dan Ndoye dragged a shot wide in stoppage time.
With no goals in regulation or extra time, the game went to penalties. The shootout swung Switzerland’s way when Kobel saved Cucho Hernandez’s spot-kick and Davinson Sanchez hit the crossbar for Colombia. Manuel Akanji missed for Switzerland but Ruben Vargas converted the decisive penalty to seal a 4-3 win.
The result was a shock to many fans because Colombia came into the game with one of the tournament’s best defences, having conceded just once before this match, and were backed by thousands of supporters in Canada. They were also chasing only their second ever World Cup quarter-final appearance. Coach Nestor Lorenzo said his side paid the price for not scoring, despite creating 15 attempts.
Switzerland will now face defending champions Argentina in the quarter-finals.