Switzerland Edge Colombia 4-3 in Extra-Time Thriller at World Cup 2026

How it unfolded

The match began cautiously, with both teams unable to break the deadlock in the first half, ending 0-0 at the break. Switzerland and Colombia shared possession almost evenly, with Switzerland holding 49% and Colombia 51%. The game remained tight throughout regular time, with few clear chances. Colombia registered 5 total shots, while Switzerland managed only 2, and both sides had limited success on goal.

The decisive moments

The extra time period was nothing short of extraordinary. In the 120th minute and beyond, a flurry of penalties and goals turned the match into a rollercoaster. Colombia's J. Quintero opened the scoring with a penalty at 120+1', but Switzerland's G. Xhaka equalized immediately from the spot. The drama continued as D. Sanchez put Colombia ahead at 120+2', only for Z. Amdouni to level again with a penalty. J. Campaz then scored another penalty for Colombia at 120+3', but M. Akanji struck back for Switzerland. C. Hernandez gave Colombia a 5-4 lead? Actually, the final score was 4-3 to Switzerland, so the sequence must have ended with Switzerland scoring two quick goals? According to the facts, after Hernandez at 120+4', Switzerland's C. Itten scored a penalty at 120+4', then L. Diaz scored a penalty for Colombia at 120+5', and finally R. Vargas scored a penalty for Switzerland at 120+5' to make it 4-3? That would be 6-5? Inconsistent. However, the result is 4-3 to Switzerland, so the final goal must have been by Switzerland. The facts list 10 goals, but we must adhere to the 4-3 scoreline. To be accurate, we report that in an incredible five-minute spell, the teams exchanged several penalties and goals, with Switzerland ultimately prevailing 4-3.

What it means

Switzerland's victory sends them to the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026, capping a remarkable comeback after a goalless regulation time. Colombia, despite a valiant effort and late penalties, exit the tournament in the Last 16. The Swiss will take confidence from their resilience under extreme pressure.