By Kede Aihie
Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954. The Round of 16 match was played on Tuesday, July 7 at BC Place in Vancouver and finished 0-0 after 120 minutes, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. Colombia edged the expected goals 1.03 to 0.35, and their best opportunity came in extra time when Campaz missed a chance to win it.
The shootout was decided when Ruben Vargas converted Switzerland’s fifth penalty, sending them through. It was a nervy finish, but the Swiss kept their composure when it mattered most.
Next up for Switzerland is a quarter-final against reigning world champions Argentina in Kansas City. The winner of that game will go on to face either Norway or England.
