Top storiesNew ZealandPoliticsBusinessEntertainmentSportsWorld

Ruben Vargas sends Switzerland to the World Cup quarterfinals in shootout win over Colombia

Wednesday, 8 July 2026

Ruben Vargas converted his penalty and Switzerland advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over Colombia after a scoreless draw on Tuesday.

Switzerland will next face defending champion Argentina on Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2 earlier in the day.

Switzerland
Switzerland's Granit Xhaka reacts after scoring a goal during a penalty shootout in the World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Switzerland and Colombia in Vancouver, British Columbia, Tuesday, July 7, 2026. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Switzerland had not reached the quarterfinals of a World Cup since hosting the tournament in 1954. And the Swiss were shorthanded Tuesday without young midfielder Johan Manzambi, who was injured in training on Monday.

For full World Cup coverage, go to our World Cup section.

How the match unfolded: