Switzerland progressed to the FIFA World Cup last 16 after defeating Algeria in the knockout phase. Goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye secured a historic victory for Murat Yakin’s side, ending an 87-year wait for success in the tournament’s latter stages.
The Swiss had not triumphed in a World Cup knockout tie since 1938. This drought ended in convincing fashion as they controlled proceedings against an Algeria side unable to test goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
Manzambi illuminates tournament
Johan Manzambi once again proved decisive, teeing up Embolo for the opener with a driving run and composed cross. The 20-year-old Freiburg forward has now contributed to five goals at this tournament, becoming the youngest player to reach that benchmark at a World Cup since records began.
Manzambi’s assist took his personal tally to three goals and two assists. Only Germany’s Thomas Müller, at the 2010 tournament, had previously achieved five goal involvements before turning 21 this millennium.
Switzerland’s captain Granit Xhaka has attempted to manage expectations, but coach Murat Yakin offered glowing praise. He is a precious player for us, a brilliant footballer and he is just improving one match after the other, Yakin said. It is just so much fun to work with him and see him perform like that.
The performance will intensify transfer speculation linking Manzambi with Newcastle United, who are reportedly pursuing a deal for the attacker.
Swift second half seal
Switzerland doubled their advantage moments after the restart when Ndoye controlled Aissa Mandi’s clearance on his left foot before drilling a shot past Luca Zidane with his right. The goal came just 48 seconds into the second period.
Algeria, managed by former Switzerland boss Vladimir Petkovic, offered little threat throughout. Houssem Aouar spurned an early chance after Riyad Mahrez’s clever dummy, while Ibrahim Maza also failed to convert a presentable opportunity.
Mahrez confirms international retirement
Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has confirmed his retirement from international football following the defeat. The winger missed a key chance to reduce the deficit when his side trailed by two goals, sending a tame first-time effort wide.
Petkovic, who spent seven years in charge of Switzerland and guided them to the Euro 2020 quarter-finals, acknowledged his former side’s quality. He suggested that Switzerland have the capability to advance further in the competition.
Road ahead
Switzerland will face either Colombia or Ghana in the last 16 in Vancouver on Tuesday. The Nati have gathered momentum after an opening draw against Qatar, winning three consecutive matches while scoring eight goals and conceding just twice.
Yakin’s team will monitor the outcome of the final group fixtures to discover their opponents, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.