KUCHING: Few expected Switzerland to still be standing at this stage, but a disciplined and resilient campaign has carried them into the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.
The Swiss have quietly emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise packages, reaching the last eight through organisation, determination and collective teamwork rather than individual stardom.
Their campaign began with a 1-1 draw against Qatar before a convincing 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina and a composed 2-1 win over co-hosts Canada secured top spot in Group B.
Switzerland maintained their momentum in the knockout stage, defeating Algeria 2-0 in the Round of 32 before edging Colombia in a dramatic penalty shootout after 120 goalless minutes.
Colombian pair, Davinson Sánchez and Cucho Hernández, both failed to convert from the spot, allowing Rubén Vargas to score the decisive penalty and seal a historic quarter-final berth.
The achievement equals Switzerland’s best World Cup performance since they hosted the tournament in 1954, when the quarter-finals marked the opening knockout round.
While they have flown under the radar throughout the competition, Switzerland have built their success on defensive discipline, tactical organisation and an unwavering fighting spirit.
Their reward is the biggest challenge of the tournament yet – a quarter-final showdown against defending champions, Argentina, inspired by captain Lionel Messi.
Few will make Switzerland favourites, but after already defying expectations, the Swiss have every reason to believe they can continue their fairy-tale run.
To reach the semi-finals for the first time in their history, however, they will need the performance of their lives against the reigning world champions.
